GoKawiilSynology NAS ransomware traced to 18-month-old unpatched CVE-2024-10441 flaw
A Reddit user running a Synology DS918+ NAS had files encrypted by ransomware after leaving the device's web interface exposed directly to the internet and roughly 18 months behind on security patches. Forensic analysis of logs and system files, after moving the drives to a Proxmox machine, pointed to exploitation of CVE-2024-10441, a remote code execution vulnerability Synology disclosed a year and a half earlier. The user avoided data loss thanks to a 3-2-1 backup setup.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The case highlights how exposing device management interfaces directly to the internet, rather than behind a VPN, remains a common and costly mistake even among technically skilled users. Commenters on the thread noted that Synology's DSM interface can report a device as 'up to date' while still requiring manual installation of critical security patches, which could leave many users unknowingly vulnerable. It underscores that patch management UX failures, not just user error, may be contributing to successful ransomware attacks on NAS devices.
- A Synology DS918+ NAS was hit by ransomware via CVE-2024-10441, patched 18 months before the attack.
- The device's web interface was exposed directly to the internet without VPN protection, a widely discouraged practice.
- A 3-2-1 backup strategy allowed the user to avoid permanent data loss despite the breach.
Synology DS923+ NAS — If you're going to run a NAS, do it right: the DS923+ supports DSM's security features and regular patching, and pairs well with a proper backup strategy like the 3-2-1 approach mentioned in the article. Just remember not to expose its web interface directly to the internet without a VPN or reverse proxy, and keep it updated unlike our unlucky Redditor.
See Synology DS923+ NAS on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: tomshardware.com — Bruno Ferreira, 2026-10-29
Published there as: “Tech whizz's internet-accessible Synology NAS gets bit by ransomware attack from 18-month-old remote code execution flaw — security updates neglected in a series of catastrophic errors”
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