A turf war has erupted between two significant ransomware gangs, DragonForce and RansomHub, following cyberattacks on UK retailers including Marks and Spencer and Harrods.

Security experts warn that the feud could result in companies being extorted multiple times as criminal groups compete to control the lucrative ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) market.

DragonForce, a predominantly Russian-speaking group, reportedly triggered the conflict by rebranding as a cartel and expanding its affiliate base.

Tensions escalated after RansomHub's dark-web site was taken offline in what is believed to be a hostile move by DragonForce, prompting retaliation through digital vandalism.

Cybersecurity analysts say the breakdown in relationships between hacking groups has created instability, increasing the likelihood of future attacks. Experts also point to a growing risk of follow-up extortion attempts by affiliates when criminal partnerships collapse.

The rivalry reflects the ruthless dynamics of the ransomware economy, which is forecast to cost businesses$10 trillion globally by the end of 2025. Victims now face not only technical challenges but also the legal and financial fallout of navigating increasingly unpredictable criminal networks.