Core Viewpoint - Broadcom has initiated audits on former VMware customers who have not renewed their support contracts, following a significant price increase of up to 300% for VMware products due to Broadcom's bundling strategy [1][3][7]. Group 1: Audit Initiation - Broadcom has begun sending "stop and cease usage" letters to VMware users whose support contracts have expired, demanding they stop using all updates and patches released since the termination of their contracts [1][2]. - An audit has been launched for a Dutch software supplier, which has been a VMware customer for about ten years, indicating that Broadcom is actively reviewing compliance with VMware software usage [3][4]. Group 2: Customer Concerns - Customers express concerns about the financial impact of the audits, with some fearing it could affect salary negotiations and lead to layoffs due to budget constraints [5]. - There are reports of companies receiving audit notifications despite having ceased using VMware products, raising questions about the validity of Broadcom's audit process [7][8]. Group 3: Market Reaction - Broadcom's aggressive enforcement of VMware licensing agreements has generated backlash among existing and former customers, with calls for regulatory scrutiny of its practices [9]. - The acquisition of VMware for $69 billion is viewed as a successful transaction, yet the ongoing issues with customer relations and compliance audits may tarnish Broadcom's reputation in the market [9].