CVE-2025-54153: Qnap Qsync Central SQLi Vulnerability

CVE-2025-54153 Overview

CVE-2025-54153 is a SQL injection vulnerability [CWE-89] affecting QNAP Qsync Central. An authenticated remote attacker with a valid user account can exploit the flaw to execute unauthorized code or commands on the affected system. QNAP addressed the issue in Qsync Central version 5.0.0.2, released on 2025/07/31. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity of data managed by the Qsync Central service, which provides centralized file synchronization across QNAP NAS deployments. Refer to the QNAP Security Advisory QSA-25-35 for vendor guidance.

Critical Impact
Authenticated remote attackers can inject arbitrary SQL statements to execute unauthorized code or commands against Qsync Central deployments.

Affected Products

QNAP Qsync Central versions prior to 5.0.0.2
QNAP NAS devices running vulnerable Qsync Central builds
Centralized file synchronization deployments using Qsync Central

Discovery Timeline

2025-10-03 - CVE-2025-54153 published to NVD
2025-07-31 - QNAP releases Qsync Central 5.0.0.2 with the fix
2025-10-08 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2025-54153

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability is a SQL injection flaw in QNAP Qsync Central. Qsync Central is a server-side application that centrally manages file synchronization tasks across QNAP NAS environments. Improper handling of user-supplied input allows an attacker to alter SQL queries executed by the backend database. Because exploitation requires only low privileges and no user interaction, any authenticated user account is sufficient to weaponize the flaw across the network. QNAP states that successful exploitation enables execution of unauthorized code or commands, indicating impact extends beyond data exposure into command execution context.

Root Cause

The root cause is improper neutralization of special elements used in an SQL command [CWE-89]. User-controlled input is concatenated into SQL queries without parameterization or sufficient sanitization. Attackers manipulate query logic by injecting SQL syntax through parameters consumed by Qsync Central.

Attack Vector

The attack vector is network-based and requires an authenticated session. An attacker who obtains or compromises a valid Qsync Central user account submits crafted requests containing SQL payloads. The backend database parses the injected statements, allowing data extraction, modification, or downstream command execution depending on database privileges and stored procedures.

No public proof-of-concept code or exploit is currently available for CVE-2025-54153. See the QNAP Security Advisory QSA-25-35 for vendor-supplied technical context.

Detection Methods for CVE-2025-54153

Indicators of Compromise

Unexpected SQL syntax characters such as single quotes, UNION, SELECT, or comment delimiters in Qsync Central request parameters
Anomalous database queries originating from the Qsync Central service account
Unauthorized creation or modification of Qsync Central user records or synchronization jobs
New processes spawned by the Qsync Central service following authenticated sessions

Detection Strategies

Inspect HTTP request logs for Qsync Central endpoints and flag parameters containing SQL metacharacters or encoded payloads
Correlate authenticated session activity with database query patterns to identify deviations from baseline behavior
Alert on Qsync Central versions reported as below 5.0.0.2 through asset inventory and version banner checks

Monitoring Recommendations

Forward QNAP NAS system, access, and application logs to a centralized logging or SIEM platform for retention and query
Monitor Qsync Central administrative actions and privileged database operations for unexpected sources or times
Track failed and successful authentication events to Qsync Central, particularly bursts from a single user account

How to Mitigate CVE-2025-54153

Immediate Actions Required

Upgrade Qsync Central to version 5.0.0.2 or later, released on 2025/07/31
Audit Qsync Central user accounts and revoke unused or stale credentials
Restrict network access to Qsync Central management interfaces to trusted administrative networks
Enforce strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication on QNAP NAS accounts

Patch Information

QNAP fixed CVE-2025-54153 in Qsync Central 5.0.0.2 (2025/07/31) and later. Administrators should apply the update through the QNAP App Center or download it directly from QNAP. Full details are available in the QNAP Security Advisory QSA-25-35.

Workarounds

Disable Qsync Central until the patched version can be installed if immediate upgrade is not possible
Limit Qsync Central access to a minimal set of authenticated users through role-based controls
Place QNAP NAS devices behind a VPN or firewall rule set that blocks untrusted network access to management services

bash

# Verify installed Qsync Central version on a QNAP NAS
# Replace <NAS_HOST> and credentials as appropriate
ssh admin@<NAS_HOST> "qpkg_cli --list | grep -i 'Qsync Central'"

# Expected output should show version 5.0.0.2 or later