ViciousTrap Uses Cisco Flaw to Build Global Honeypot from 5,300 Compromised Devices

ViciousTrap Uses Cisco Flaw to Build Global Honeypot from 5,300 Compromised Devices

Cybersecurity researchers have revealed that the threat actor ViciousTrap has compromised thousands of network devices worldwide, turning them into honeypots to intercept network traffic. The attack exploits a critical Cisco router vulnerability (CVE-2023-20118) and involves complex malware like NetGhost, with most infections in Macau. #CVE-2023-20118 #ViciousTrap

Keypoints

  • ViciousTrap has infected nearly 5,300 devices across 84 countries, primarily in Macau.
  • The attack exploits a critical flaw in Cisco Small Business routers using CVE-2023-20118.
  • Malware called NetGhost redirects traffic to the attacker-controlled honeypots for surveillance.
  • The campaign involves the use of web shells previously associated with the PolarEdge botnet.
  • Most activities originate from Malaysia, with indications of Chinese-speaking threat actors involved.

Read More: https://thehackernews.com/2025/05/vicioustrap-uses-cisco-flaw-to-build.html