(Pwn2Own) QNAP TS-453E conn_log_tool Format String Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows network-adjacent attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of QNAP TS-453E devices. Although authentication is required to exploit this vulnerability, the existing authentication mechanism can be bypassed.
The specific flaw exists within the handling of the format parameter provided to the conn_log_tool executable. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied string before using it as a format specifier. An attacker can leverage this in conjunction with other vulnerabilities to execute code in the context of admin.
Additional Details
QNAP has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:
https://www.qnap.com/en/security-advisory/qsa-25-45
Disclosure Timeline
- 2025-11-18 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
- 2026-03-16 - Coordinated public release of advisory
- 2026-03-16 - Advisory Updated
Credit
YingMuo (@YingMuo) of DEVCORE Research Team, HexRabbit (@h3xr4bb1t) of DEVCORE Research Team, LJP (@ljp_tw) of DEVCORE Research Team, nella17 (@nella17tw), working with DEVCORE Internship Program
