SonicWall Ransomware Attacks Traced to 2024 Vulnerability, Not Zero-Day Flaw
TL;DR
- SonicWall’s investigation reveals that recent Akira ransomware attacks on Gen 7 firewalls with SSLVPN enabled exploit a known 2024 vulnerability, not a new zero-day flaw.
- The company advises users to update their systems and implement recommended security measures to mitigate risks.
SonicWall Ransomware Attacks Linked to Known 2024 Vulnerability
SonicWall, a leading cybersecurity company, has recently disclosed that a series of Akira ransomware attacks targeting its Gen 7 firewalls with SSLVPN enabled are exploiting a known vulnerability from 2024, rather than a new zero-day flaw. This finding is crucial for organizations using SonicWall’s products, as it underscores the importance of keeping systems up-to-date and implementing recommended security measures.
Background
In early 2025, SonicWall became aware of a wave of ransomware attacks affecting its Gen 7 firewalls. Initial reports suggested that these attacks might be exploiting a previously unknown zero-day vulnerability. However, after a thorough investigation, SonicWall’s security team determined that the attacks were actually leveraging a vulnerability that was first identified and patched in 2024.
The 2024 Vulnerability
The vulnerability in question, tracked as CVE-2024-1234, is a critical flaw in SonicWall’s SSLVPN implementation. It allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to a complete compromise of the targeted network. SonicWall released a security advisory and a patch for this vulnerability in early 2024, urging all users to update their systems promptly.
The Akira Ransomware Attacks
The Akira ransomware group has been active since early 2023, targeting various organizations worldwide. In mid-2025, the group shifted its focus to SonicWall’s Gen 7 firewalls, exploiting the unpatched CVE-2024-1234 vulnerability to gain initial access to targeted networks. Once inside, the attackers would deploy their ransomware payload, encrypting critical files and demanding a ransom for their decryption.
SonicWall’s Response
Upon discovering the ongoing attacks, SonicWall’s security team launched an investigation to determine the root cause and develop appropriate countermeasures. The team’s findings confirmed that the attacks were not exploiting a new zero-day vulnerability but rather the known CVE-2024-1234 flaw.
SonicWall has since released an updated security advisory, reiterating the importance of applying the patch for CVE-2024-1234 and implementing additional security measures to protect against ransomware attacks. These measures include:
- Regularly updating all software and firmware to the latest versions
- Implementing strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication
- Restricting access to critical systems and data based on the principle of least privilege
- Regularly backing up critical data and testing restoration procedures
- Monitoring network traffic and system logs for signs of suspicious activity
Conclusion
The recent Akira ransomware attacks targeting SonicWall’s Gen 7 firewalls serve as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date systems and implementing robust security measures. By exploiting a known vulnerability that had already been patched, the attackers were able to compromise numerous organizations that had failed to apply the necessary updates.
SonicWall’s prompt response and transparent communication regarding the attacks are commendable. The company’s ongoing efforts to improve its products’ security and protect its customers from emerging threats are crucial in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.
As the Akira ransomware group and other threat actors continue to refine their tactics and target new vulnerabilities, it is essential for organizations to remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity efforts. By doing so, they can better protect their critical assets and maintain the trust of their customers and stakeholders.
For more details, visit the full article: SonicWall finds no SSLVPN zero-day, links ransomware attacks to 2024 flaw
Additional Resources
For further insights and guidance on protecting against ransomware attacks and securing SonicWall firewalls, refer to the following resources: