Overview
In 2024, ransomware attacks targeting VMware ESXi reached critical levels with average demands of $5 million. With approximately 8,000 ESXi hosts exposed directly to the internet, organizations face unprecedented risks from modified Babuk ransomware variants
Key Findings
- vCenter server compromises enable total ESXi host control through the vpxuser account
- Attackers target critical operational files including VMDK, VMEM, VSWP, and VMSN
- Hybrid encryption methods combine speed and security using AES/Chacha20 with RSA
Risk Analysis
- Probability: High (8,000+ exposed hosts)
- Impact: Critical ($5M+ per incident)
- Attack Surface: Multiple entry points via vCenter
- Recovery Complexity: Severe due to encrypted VM files
Action Items
- Implement regular VCSA updates and multi-factor authentication
- Deploy network segmentation for vCenter isolation
- Install advanced detection tools (EDR/XDR)
- Establish continuous threat exposure management (CTEM)
Sources
- [The Hacker News](https://thehackernews.com/2025/01/ransomware-on-esxi-mechanization-of.html)
