External risk intelligence

QNAP NAS HBS 3 Unauthorized Access Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2021-28799

An improper authorization vulnerability in QNAP NAS devices using HBS 3 allows remote attackers to log in. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data stored on the devices, presenting a significant business risk.

4Halo Surface Signal

Qnap Hybrid Backup Sync

before 16.0.0415before 3.0.210412before 3.0.210411before 16.0.0419

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2021-28799

The vulnerability affects QNAP Network Attached Storage devices running Hybrid Backup Sync. NAS devices are frequently deployed as internet-facing appliances or gateways to provide remote file access and backup synchronization capabilities, making the management interface and associated services commonly accessible via the public internet.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A vulnerability in QNAP's Hybrid Backup Sync (HBS 3) software could allow unauthorized remote access. This flaw exists within the authorization mechanisms of the application, potentially enabling attackers to gain entry to the affected devices. The impact of such an intrusion could compromise the confidentiality and integrity of data stored on the QNAP NAS.

  • Vulnerable: QNAP HBS 3 software
  • Flaw: Improper authorization permits remote login
  • Impact: Unauthorized data access and compromise

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

Attackers can exploit an improper authorization vulnerability in QNAP NAS devices running HBS 3. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized login access to the device. Successful exploitation could lead to attackers controlling the affected device.

  • An organization's NAS device is exposed externally.
  • An attacker gains unauthenticated access.
  • The attacker logs in, gaining control.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

An improper authorization vulnerability has been identified in QNAP NAS devices running HBS 3. This vulnerability could allow unauthorized remote attackers to gain access to a device. The potential for significant data compromise and system disruption presents a considerable business risk.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Low
  • Required access or conditions: Network access
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to log in to affected QNAP devices, posing a significant business risk due to potential unauthorized access to sensitive data. The attack vector is network-based, meaning exploitation can occur over the internet without requiring prior access or user interaction. Organizations using QNAP NAS devices with Hybrid Backup Sync should prioritize addressing this issue to prevent compromise.

  • Find QNAP NAS devices using HBS 3.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate affected assets.
  • Apply vendor fixes and validate.
  • Monitor for related incidents.

Frequently asked questions

What is QNAP HBS 3 and what is its purpose?

QNAP HBS 3 (Hybrid Backup Sync) is a software solution designed for QNAP Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices. It is primarily used for data backup, file restoration, and synchronizing data across different locations, thereby enhancing data protection and availability.

What is CVE-2021-28799 and what weakness class does it represent in QNAP HBS 3?

CVE-2021-28799 is an improper authorization vulnerability. This weakness class (CWE-285) indicates that the software fails to adequately verify if a user or process possesses the necessary permissions to perform a requested action, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

How can CVE-2021-28799 be exploited, and what is the scope of its impact on QNAP devices?

The improper authorization vulnerability in QNAP HBS 3 allows remote attackers to log in to a device without proper authentication. This means an attacker with network access can potentially gain unauthorized control over the QNAP NAS, affecting the entire system.

What is the significance of CVE-2021-28799 for organizations using QNAP NAS devices?

This vulnerability is significant because it enables remote attackers to log in to QNAP devices, posing a high business risk due to potential unauthorized access to sensitive data. The attack vector is network-based, allowing exploitation over the internet.

What steps should organizations take to address the CVE-2021-28799 vulnerability in QNAP HBS 3?

Organizations should identify QNAP NAS devices running HBS 3, reduce their external exposure or isolate affected assets, and promptly apply vendor-provided updates. Monitoring for related security incidents is also a recommended practice.

References