CVE-2025-46617 is a vulnerability identified in Quantum's StorNext product suite, specifically affecting versions prior to 7.2.4 of StorNext RYO, StorNext Xcellis Workflow Director, and ActiveScale Cold Storage. The vulnerability arises from the use of hard-coded credentials embedded within the Web GUI API, which are undocumented and grant unauthorized access to internal StorNext configuration settings. This flaw allows an attacker who can reach the Web GUI API to bypass normal authentication mechanisms and gain access to sensitive configuration parameters. Consequently, the attacker can modify software configuration settings, potentially altering system behavior or disabling security controls. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-798, indicating the use of hard-coded credentials, a known security anti-pattern that significantly weakens system security. The exploitation does not require prior authentication but does require network access to the Web GUI API endpoint. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability was published on April 25, 2025, and has been enriched by CISA for awareness. The presence of hard-coded credentials in critical storage management systems poses a risk of unauthorized configuration changes, which could lead to data exposure, service disruption, or further compromise of the storage environment.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a significant risk due to the critical role StorNext plays in managing high-performance storage environments, often used in media production, research institutions, and large enterprises. Unauthorized access to configuration parameters could lead to data integrity issues, unauthorized data access, or disruption of storage services. This can impact confidentiality by exposing sensitive stored data, integrity by allowing unauthorized modification of system configurations, and availability if attackers disrupt storage workflows. Given that StorNext is used in environments requiring high data throughput and reliability, exploitation could cause operational downtime, impacting business continuity. Additionally, unauthorized configuration changes could weaken security postures, facilitating further attacks or data exfiltration. The lack of authentication requirement for exploitation increases the threat level, especially in environments where the Web GUI API is exposed or insufficiently segmented. European organizations handling sensitive or regulated data (e.g., GDPR-protected personal data) could face compliance and reputational risks if this vulnerability is exploited.

1. Immediate network segmentation: Restrict access to the StorNext Web GUI API to trusted management networks only, using firewalls and access control lists to prevent unauthorized external access. 2. Monitor and audit access logs: Implement detailed logging and continuous monitoring of access to the StorNext Web GUI API to detect any unauthorized or suspicious activity promptly. 3. Apply vendor updates promptly: Although no patch links are currently available, organizations should prioritize applying Quantum's updates or patches as soon as they are released for version 7.2.4 or later. 4. Credential management review: Conduct an internal audit of all credentials used within StorNext environments and rotate any default or hard-coded credentials where possible, including changing undocumented credentials if discovered. 5. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA): Where supported, enable MFA on management interfaces to add an additional layer of security beyond credentials. 6. Network-level protections: Use VPNs or secure tunnels for remote management access to StorNext systems to reduce exposure of the Web GUI API. 7. Incident response preparedness: Develop and test incident response plans specific to storage infrastructure compromise to minimize impact in case of exploitation. 8. Engage with Quantum support: Maintain communication with Quantum for updates, advisories, and best practices related to this vulnerability.