RondoDox is a sophisticated botnet that emerged in mid-2025, characterized by its use of a broad array of exploits—over 50 in total—targeting a diverse set of networked devices including routers, DVRs, NVRs, CCTV systems, and servers from more than 30 different vendors. The botnet notably exploits command injection vulnerabilities, some of which remain unassigned CVE identifiers, highlighting the evolving nature of its attack surface. Initial exploitation included CVE-2023-1389 affecting TP-Link Archer AX21 routers and later expanded to include high-severity vulnerabilities such as CVE-2024-3721 and CVE-2024-12856 in TBK DVRs and Four-Faith routers. RondoDox targets multiple CPU architectures (ARM, MIPS, Linux), increasing its reach across IoT and network devices. The botnet operators employ rapid infrastructure rotation to avoid detection and distribute their payloads using a loader-as-a-service model that bundles RondoDox with other malware like Mirai and Morte, complicating remediation efforts. The botnet’s capabilities include launching DDoS attacks using HTTP, UDP, and TCP packets, cryptocurrency mining, and lateral movement into enterprise networks. It also uses traffic obfuscation techniques by mimicking gaming platforms and VPN services to evade network security monitoring. The inclusion of several exploited vulnerabilities on CISA’s KEV list underscores the urgency for patching. The botnet’s broad targeting strategy and evolving tactics demonstrate a persistent threat to internet-exposed network infrastructure lacking robust security controls.

For European organizations, the RondoDox botnet poses significant risks due to its ability to compromise a wide range of network devices commonly deployed in enterprise and industrial environments. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access, enabling attackers to conduct large-scale DDoS attacks that disrupt business operations and degrade service availability. The use of infected devices for cryptocurrency mining can degrade device performance and increase operational costs. Moreover, compromised devices can serve as entry points for deeper network infiltration, potentially leading to data breaches, intellectual property theft, or ransomware deployment. The botnet’s evasion techniques complicate detection and response, increasing dwell time and potential damage. Organizations relying on vulnerable routers, DVRs, NVRs, and CCTV systems without timely patching or adequate network segmentation are particularly exposed. The threat also impacts critical infrastructure sectors that depend on these devices for security and monitoring, raising concerns about operational continuity and safety.

European organizations should implement a multi-layered defense strategy tailored to the specific threat posed by RondoDox. First, conduct a comprehensive inventory of all network-connected devices, including routers, DVRs, NVRs, CCTV systems, and servers, to identify those potentially vulnerable. Prioritize patching of known vulnerabilities, especially those listed on CISA’s KEV list and those exploited by RondoDox, even if no official CVEs exist, by consulting vendor advisories and threat intelligence sources. Deploy network segmentation to isolate IoT and network devices from critical enterprise systems, limiting lateral movement opportunities. Implement strong credential management practices, including enforcing complex passwords and disabling default credentials on all devices. Utilize network traffic analysis tools capable of detecting anomalous patterns, such as traffic mimicking gaming platforms or VPN services, to identify botnet activity. Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems tuned to recognize RondoDox and associated malware signatures. Regularly update and harden device firmware and disable unnecessary services to reduce attack surfaces. Finally, establish incident response plans that include rapid containment and remediation procedures for infected devices, and collaborate with ISPs and cybersecurity authorities to track and mitigate botnet infrastructure.