How to Protect Your NAS from Cyber Threats and Ransomware Attacks

In today’s digital age, Network Attached Storage (NAS) has become a trusted companion for many of us, whether you're managing important work files, family photos, or running a small business. It’s convenient, always accessible, and centralizes all your data in one place. But with this convenience comes a growing concern: cyber threats and ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly advanced, and NAS devices have become a new target for hackers.

If you’ve ever thought, “It won’t happen to me,” you’re not alone. Many of us overlook the security of our NAS until it’s too late. The truth is, just like your computer or smartphone, your NAS is vulnerable if not properly protected. Ransomware can lock you out of your files, and cybercriminals can exploit weaknesses to steal or destroy sensitive data, causing emotional distress, financial loss, or business disruption.

In this guide, we'll learn about cyber threats, how to protect your NAS, and what to do if it gets attacked.

Understanding Cyber Threats to NAS

NAS devices are network-connected storage systems. Any vulnerability in the network, the configuration, or the device’s software can potentially expose your data. The most common threats include:

1. Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts your files and demands payment (usually in cryptocurrency) to unlock them. Many variants now specifically scan for NAS devices on networks and encrypt their contents.

2. Brute Force Attacks

Hackers use automated scripts to guess weak passwords. Once they crack your NAS login credentials, they can lock you out or steal data.

3. Zero-Day Vulnerabilities

These are previously unknown bugs or flaws in NAS firmware or software. Cybercriminals exploit these flaws before vendors release patches.

4. Malicious Insiders or Misconfigured Access

Sometimes, the threat comes from within. Poor access management or disgruntled employees can leak or destroy data.

Did You Know? According to Sophos' 2023 report, 66% of organisations that experienced ransomware attacks had their backup data targeted and encrypted as well.

Simple Steps to Secure Your NAS

Protecting your NAS doesn’t need fancy tools—just some smart habits.

1. Keep Your NAS Updated

Always install the latest software and firmware updates from the NAS manufacturer. These updates fix security gaps that hackers may try to exploit.

Tip: Turn on automatic updates or set a monthly reminder to check manually.

2. Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Login

• Avoid simple passwords like “admin” or “123456.”
  
  

• Create unique passwords with letters, numbers, and symbols.
  
  

• Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) if your NAS allows it. It adds an extra layer of safety.
  
  

3. Avoid Direct Internet Access

Many attacks happen because people leave their NASs wide open to the internet.

• Turn off remote access unless you need it.
  
  

• If you need remote access, use a VPN (a secure tunnel for safe access).
  
  

• Close unused ports like FTP, SSH, or Telnet.
  
  

Real Example:
In 2021, a ransomware attack called Qlocker hit QNAP NAS users worldwide. It locked their data because many had weak passwords or outdated systems.

4. Set Up User Permissions

Not everyone needs full access.

• Create different users with only the access they need.
  
  

• Only the administrator should have full control.
  
  

• Turn on logs so you can track who accessed what and when.

Smart Ways to Protect Against Ransomware

Let’s look at how to stay one step ahead of ransomware.

1. Use the 3-2-1 Backup Rule

This is the golden rule for data safety:

• Keep 3 copies of your data.
  
  

• Use 2 different storage types (e.g., NAS and an external drive).
  
  

• Store 1 copy offline or in the cloud—away from your main system.
  
  

Offline backups are safe from ransomware because they aren’t connected to the internet.

2. Make Backups That Can’t Be Changed

Some NAS devices (like Synology or QNAP) offer snapshot backups or immutable backups. These backups can’t be changed or deleted even if someone tries.

So, even if ransomware gets in, your snapshots stay safe, and you can restore your data.

3. Use Built-in Security Tools

Most modern NAS brands have tools to help spot threats. For example:

• Synology’s Security Advisor
  
  

• QNAP’s Malware Remover
  
  

• Antivirus software to scan files
  
  

Set them up and let them run in the background. They’ll alert you if anything suspicious happens.

Amazing Fact!
By 2031, ransomware damage is expected to cost the world over $265 billion each year, with attacks happening every 2 seconds.

What to Do If Your NAS Is Attacked

If something goes wrong, here’s how to respond calmly and quickly:

Step 1: Disconnect Immediately

• Unplug your NAS from the internet and local network.
  
  

• This stops the attack from spreading.
  
  

Step 2: Check the Damage

• Look for signs of encrypted or missing files.
  
  

• Check logs to see what happened.
  
  

Step 3: Restore from a Clean Backup

• Use an offline or snapshot backup to restore your data.
  
  

• Don’t use backups that might be infected.
  
  

Step 4: Report the Incident

• Report it to CERT-In (India's cyber emergency team).
  
  

• Also, alert your IT team or local cybercrime authorities.
  
  

Pro Tip: After the attack, reset all passwords and review your security settings.

Did You Know? According to IDC, only 1 in 4 small businesses test their backups regularly. That means many don’t realise their backups are broken until it’s too late.

Extra Tips for Stronger NAS Security

1. Separate Your NAS from the Main Network

Use a second router or set up a separate network for your NAS. That way, even if your main network is attacked, your NAS stays safe.

2. Turn Off Unused Services

Don’t keep services like FTP, SSH, or Telnet running unless you use them.

Less exposure = less risk.

3. Monitor Activity and Health

Most NAS dashboards let you set up email or app alerts for:

• Login failures
  
  

• High storage or CPU use
  
  

• Unusual file changes
  
  

Use them! Early alerts can save your data.

Conclusion

Your NAS is a powerful tool, but without proper protection, it can become an easy target for cybercriminals. The truth is, most threats can be avoided with basic steps, like using strong passwords, updating your system regularly, setting up firewalls, and backing up your data.

Don’t wait for something to go wrong to start thinking about security. Take action early, stay informed, and make it a habit to check your system’s safety from time to time.

In today’s digital age, being careful is not an option—it’s a necessity. Protect your NAS, and you protect everything that matters inside it.

FAQs

Q1: Why do hackers go after NAS devices?
Because NAS devices store valuable data and are often left exposed or poorly protected.

Q2: Can I completely protect my NAS?
There’s no such thing as 100% security, but you can make it very hard for attackers by following good practices.

Q3: Which NAS brands are the safest?
Synology, QNAP, and Asustor offer solid security features. But how you set it up and use it is more important than the brand.

Q4: Should I pay the ransom if I’m attacked?
No. Paying doesn’t guarantee you’ll get your files back, and it encourages more attacks.

Q5: Should I use cloud backups too?
Yes. Cloud backups add another safety net in case your NAS or office is physically damaged or stolen.