Discover the latest NAS security news, from 2025 zero-day exploits on QNAP and Synology to new AI-powered privacy features. Learn easy steps to protect your home storage today.
Key Takeaways
- In 2025, hackers found and showed off several hidden weaknesses (zero-days) in popular NAS brands like QNAP and Synology during a big hacking contest called Pwn2Own Ireland most got fixed fast, but old devices stay risky.
- Ransomware still loves attacking NAS because people store important photos, videos, and files there but good backups that can’t be changed stop most damage.
- New options like UGREEN’s 2026 AI NAS focus on keeping everything local and private, with no cloud needed this means less chance of big data leaks.
- You don’t need to be a tech expert: Simple rules like strong passwords, no internet exposure, and regular updates make your NAS much safer.
- Even if your NAS sits only at home on your local network, bad software on your computer can still reach it always test your backups!
Introduction
Imagine this: It’s December 2025, and a group called KaruHunters says they stole 1.7TB of data from someone’s QNAP NAS and want to sell it. QNAP quickly checked and said it wasn’t their cloud service’s fault it was likely because the device was left open to the internet with weak settings. Stories like this make people nervous about their home storage boxes full of family photos and important documents.
But here’s the good news: NAS makers are fixing problems faster than ever, and new devices are being built with better privacy in mind. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the latest NAS security news as of January 2026, explain what happened in 2025, and share simple steps you can take right now. Think of me as your friend who’s been setting up and fixing these devices for years no complicated words, just real advice that works.
The State of NAS Security in 2026 Key Threats & Trends
Major 2025 Exploits & Zero-Days Timeline
Last year was busy for NAS security. In October 2025, the Pwn2Own Ireland contest let expert hackers test real devices from QNAP and Synology. They found many hidden bugs.
For QNAP, teams chained together seven zero-days (like CVE-2025-62847 and others in QTS, QuTS hero, Hyper Data Protector, Malware Remover, and HBS 3) to take full control. These were serious — they could let someone run any code they wanted. QNAP released fixes right after, in early November 2025.
Synology’s BeeStation got hit too with CVE-2025-12686, a buffer overflow that let remote attackers run code without even logging in. It earned a high score (9.8 out of 10) for danger. Synology patched it fast with BeeStation OS 1.3.2-65648 or later.
These bugs show that even big brands can have surprises, but the good part? They get reported and fixed quickly when experts show them in contests like Pwn2Own.
Ransomware Targeting NAS: What Changed in 2025
Ransomware groups keep picking NAS because it’s easy to find them online and they hold valuable data. In 2025, we saw old tricks like weak passwords on SMB shares letting groups in. Some ransomware even tries to wipe backups if it gets far enough.
The KaruHunters claim in December 2025 reminded everyone: If you expose your NAS directly to the internet without strong setup, bad things can happen. QNAP said it was likely user-side issues, like reused passwords or open ports. Ransomware didn’t spike hugely in 2025 compared to earlier years, but the risk stays real for anyone not careful.
Why EoL Devices Are Still a Massive Risk
End-of-life (EoL) NAS ones no longer getting updates are sitting ducks. Think older D-Link models that got exploited in late 2025. Without patches, known bugs stay open forever. If you have an old NAS, move your data to a supported one soon.
Vendor Comparison: Security Track Record & New Developments
QNAP vs. Synology Patch Speed & Response in 2025
Both brands reacted well to Pwn2Own. QNAP patched seven zero-days in days, and Synology fixed the BeeStation bug quickly too. QNAP has had more public incidents over the years (like older ransomware waves), but they now push auto-updates and bounty programs (they got 224 reports in 2025 and paid rewards). Synology tends to keep things quiet until fixes are ready, which helps stop early attacks.
The Rise of Privacy-Focused AI NAS: UGREEN’s CES 2026 Ecosystem
Something exciting happened at CES 2026: UGREEN showed off their NASync iDX series with built-in local AI. Everything stays on your device — no sending photos to the cloud for smart features. They also launched SynCare, a home security system with AI cameras that store encrypted video right on the NAS. This cuts risks from cloud hacks and fees. It’s perfect if you want smart features without trusting big companies with your data.
Comparison Table: Security Features Across Top Brands
| Feature | QNAP | Synology | UGREEN (NASync 2026) |
| Patch Speed for Zero-Days | Fast (days after Pwn2Own) | Fast & quiet until fixed | New, but focuses on local AI & encryption |
| Built-in Firewall/2FA | Yes, strong options | Yes, very user-friendly | Enterprise-grade encryption, real-time scanning |
| Remote Access Risks | QuickConnect — use with care | QuickConnect — same caution | Local-first, no cloud needed |
| AI/Security Integration | Some apps | Surveillance Station | On-device AI, encrypted local storage for cameras |
| Update Support | Long for current models | Excellent | 5 years promised |
Myth Busting Common NAS Security Misconceptions
“My NAS Is Local Only, So It’s Safe” Why That’s Wrong
Even if you never open ports to the internet, trouble can come from inside. If your computer gets ransomware from a bad email, it can encrypt files on the NAS too. I once helped a friend who lost years of photos this way always have backups that the NAS can’t touch!
“Built-in Tools Like QuickConnect Are Secure Enough”
These make remote access easy, but they open doors. Hackers scan for them. Better to use a VPN like WireGuard or Tailscale it’s like a private tunnel.
“Firmware Updates Are Optional If I Use Strong Passwords”
Passwords help, but zero-days bypass them. Updates close those secret holes — turn on auto-updates!
Essential Best Practices to Secure Your NAS in 2026
Immediate Action Steps for All Users
- Change default admin password to something long and unique (use a password manager).
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) everywhere possible.
- Update firmware right now — check your brand’s app or web panel.
- Run the built-in security advisor scan (most NAS have one).
Advanced Network Protection Strategies
- Never forward ports or enable UPnP on your router — it invites trouble.
- Use a VPN for any outside access — set up WireGuard, it’s simple and fast.
- Put your NAS on its own VLAN if your router allows — keeps it separate from other devices.
Backup & Recovery Framework That Survives Ransomware
Follow the 3-2-1 rule:
- 3 copies of your data.
- On 2 different types of storage (NAS + external drive).
- 1 offsite or offline (like a drive you unplug).
Make backups immutable (can’t be changed) if your NAS supports snapshots. Test restoring files every few months, I do this, and it saves headaches!
What to Do If Your NAS Is Compromised – Real-World Recovery Guide
Step by Step Incident Response Checklist
- Disconnect from the internet immediately.
- Don’t power off it might hide clues.
- Scan for malware with built-in tools.
- Change all passwords from a clean computer.
- Restore from your offline backup.
- Update everything and re-secure.
From 2025 cases like the KaruHunters claim, quick isolation stopped bigger damage.
Looking Ahead: Emerging Trends & Future-Proofing Your Setup
How Local AI Changes NAS Security for the Better
With UGREEN’s new stuff, AI works on your device only — no sending sensitive files away. This means smarter photo search and camera alerts without privacy risks.
Choosing Your Next NAS Security-Focused Buying Tips
Pick brands with long update support, local AI if you want smart features, and easy encryption. Check for auto-updates and strong community help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the biggest NAS security threats right now in 2026?
Zero-days (like from Pwn2Own), ransomware via weak passwords, and exposed devices to the internet.
How do I safely access my NAS remotely?
Use a VPN (WireGuard is easy and fast) never direct ports.
Is UGREEN’s new AI NAS more secure than QNAP or Synology?
It focuses on local everything, so less cloud risk, but all good brands are safe with proper setup.
Can ransomware still encrypt my backups?
Yes, if backups are always connected. Use immutable snapshots or offline drives.
Should I expose my NAS to the internet?
No use VPN instead.
How often should I update NAS firmware?
Monthly checks, or enable auto-updates.
Conclusion
NAS devices make life easy for storing and sharing files, but like any connected gadget, they need basic care. The 2025 exploits taught us that quick patches help a lot, and new privacy-focused options like local AI are making things better.
Start today: Update your firmware, set strong passwords and 2FA, hide it from the internet with a VPN, and test a backup. Do these, and you’ll sleep better knowing your memories are safe.
Got questions or want help with your setup? Drop a comment happy to chat! For more tips, check related guides on VPN setup for NAS, best backup strategies, or smart home storage options.
