A significant new cybersecurity threat has emerged, with the notorious Mirai botnet actively targeting unpatched instances of Wazuh. Security researchers have uncovered that the botnet is specifically exploiting a newly identified vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2025-24016. This critical flaw affects Wazuh installations that have not applied the latest security updates.
The exploitation allows attackers to gain unauthorized access and potentially execute arbitrary code on affected systems. Once control is established, the compromised devices are typically recruited into the Mirai botnet, significantly expanding its size and attack capabilities. This not only compromises the individual Wazuh server but also turns it into a weapon for launching further cyberattacks, including large-scale DDoS campaigns.
The vulnerability poses a serious risk to organizations relying on Wazuh for their security monitoring and threat detection. The fact that Mirai, a botnet infamous for its relentless and widespread attacks, is leveraging this exploit highlights the urgency of the situation. Historically, Mirai has primarily focused on IoT devices, but its targeting of security infrastructure like Wazuh signals an evolution in its tactics.
It is imperative for all Wazuh users to immediately verify their system’s patch status. Applying the available security updates that address CVE-2025-24016 is the most critical step in mitigating this risk. Ignoring this vulnerability leaves systems open to exploitation by the Mirai botnet and contributes to the broader landscape of internet threats. Proactive patching and continuous security monitoring are essential defenses against such rapidly evolving cybersecurity threats.
Source: https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2025/06/10/unpatched-wazuh-servers-targeted-by-mirai-botnets-cve-2025-24016/
