VMware and SonicWall: Chinese-Speaking Threat Actors Allegedly Exploit SonicWall VPN for VMware ESXi Breach

**Cybersecurity Alert: Chinese-Speaking Threat Actors Exploit SonicWall VPN to Target VMware ESXi Systems**

In December 2025, cybersecurity firm Huntress uncovered a sophisticated attack campaign by suspected Chinese-speaking threat actors, who exploited vulnerabilities in SonicWall VPN appliances to gain initial access to targeted networks. The attackers leveraged these compromised VPNs as an entry point, demonstrating a calculated effort to bypass security controls.

The operation extended beyond initial access, with evidence suggesting the threat actors had been developing exploits for VMware ESXi systems as early as February 2024. This prolonged preparation underscores the attackers’ methodical approach and technical sophistication.

Huntress intervened before the intrusion could escalate into a full ransomware deployment, highlighting the critical role of real-time threat detection in mitigating advanced cyber threats. The incident serves as a reminder of the persistent risks posed by well-resourced adversaries, particularly those targeting enterprise infrastructure.

Source: https://dailysecurityreview.com/cyber-security/network-security/chinese-speaking-threat-actors-allegedly-exploit-sonicwall-vpn-for-vmware-esxi-breach/

VMware cybersecurity rating report: https://www.rankiteo.com/company/vmware

SonicWall cybersecurity rating report: https://www.rankiteo.com/company/SonicWall

"id": "VMWSON1768209752",
"linkid": "vmware, SonicWall",
"type": "Vulnerability",
"date": "1/2026",
"severity": "25",
"impact": "1",
"explanation": "Attack without any consequences"

{'attack_vector': 'Compromised SonicWall VPN appliance',
 'date_detected': '2025-12',
 'description': 'Threat actors exploited vulnerabilities in SonicWall VPN '
                'appliances to gain initial access and target VMware ESXi '
                'systems. The attack was detected and interrupted before '
                'ransomware deployment.',
 'impact': {'systems_affected': 'VMware ESXi systems'},
 'initial_access_broker': {'entry_point': 'SonicWall VPN appliance',
                           'high_value_targets': 'VMware ESXi systems'},
 'lessons_learned': 'Timely detection and response are critical in preventing '
                    'ransomware deployment. The incident underscores the '
                    'persistent threat posed by skilled and resourceful '
                    'actors.',
 'post_incident_analysis': {'root_causes': 'Exploitation of known '
                                           'vulnerabilities in SonicWall VPN'},
 'recommendations': 'Organizations should implement rigorous cybersecurity '
                    'measures and maintain continuous vigilance.',
 'references': [{'source': 'Huntress'}],
 'response': {'third_party_assistance': 'Huntress'},
 'threat_actor': 'Chinese-speaking threat actors',
 'title': 'SonicWall VPN Exploitation Leading to VMware ESXi Targeting',
 'type': 'Exploitation of Vulnerability',
 'vulnerability_exploited': 'Known loopholes in SonicWall VPN'}