DeepSeek-driven penetration testing tool, potentially replacing Cobalt Strike, reports over 10,000 downloads since July by cybercriminals
In a significant development in the world of cyber security, a new AI-native penetration testing tool called Villager has emerged. Developed by the Chinese company Cyberspike, Villager is causing waves due to its sophisticated capabilities.
First appearing on the scene in November 2023, Cyberspike, the company behind Villager, has gained attention for its innovative approach to security. According to reports, no evidence of such a company exists on Chinese social media, as stated by cybersecurity expert Straiker.
Villager, easily accessible via the official Python Package Index (PyPI), has been downloaded more than 10,000 times since its publication in July 2025. The tool is capable of complex attacks based on natural language prompts, a significant step above the scripted attacks possible via Cobalt Strike.
One of Villager's key features is its command and control (C2) system, which is accessed via its Python-based FastAPI connection. Each attack is broken down into manageable subtasks by Villager's AI model through its C2 system. The tool can exploit vulnerabilities in a given domain, launch attacks using multiple tools, and establish persistence for attackers in compromised systems.
Villager's integration of multiple attack vectors through intelligent task orchestration lowers the technical barrier for conducting complex attacks. It combines containerized Kali environments, browser automation, direct code execution, and a 4,201-prompts vulnerability database. If an API endpoint is detected, Villager may use browser automation for a breach attempt.
In addition, Villager leverages Kali Linux toolsets and DeepSeek v3 to automate attacks. For WordPress vulnerabilities, it uses WPScan. Each Kali Linux container created by Villager has built-in mechanisms to wipe themselves after 24 hours, adding a layer of stealth to its operations.
The most dangerous innovation of Villager, however, lies not in any single capability, but in how it seamlessly integrates multiple attack vectors. This integration allows it to adapt to various targets and evade detection more effectively.
In a positive note, an aggressive campaign against hackers using Cobalt Strike, announced by Fortra and Microsoft in March, resulted in an 80% drop in malicious use of the tool on a daily basis. This suggests that while tools like Villager pose a significant threat, ongoing efforts to combat security are showing results.
As the cyber threat landscape continues to evolve, it's clear that tools like Villager will play a significant role. Cybersecurity experts and organisations must stay vigilant and adapt their strategies to counteract these advanced threats.
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