Hackers Exploit PHP2Shell Flaws in Check Point Gateways to Deploy TSGA Backdoor and Wipe ESXi Files

An unknown threat actor has been observed targeting unpatched Check Point Security Gateways to obtain initial access via the PHP2Shell vulnerabilities and then a previously unreported local privilege escalation flaw in Gaia OS  to deploy a backdoor called TSGA. The activity, detailed by Check Point, began on October 30, 2026, and targeted Israeli organizations, with a broader follow-up