CVE-2001-1379 in mod_auth_pgsql
Summary
by MITRE
The PostgreSQL authentication modules (1) mod_auth_pgsql 0.9.5, and (2) mod_auth_pgsql_sys 0.9.4, allow remote attackers to bypass authentication and execute arbitrary SQL via a SQL injection attack on the user name.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-1379 represents a critical authentication bypass flaw affecting PostgreSQL authentication modules mod_auth_pgsql version 0.9.5 and mod_auth_pgsql_sys version 0.9.4. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the authentication processing logic, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate the authentication flow through SQL injection techniques. The flaw specifically targets the username parameter handling, which serves as the primary authentication credential in this context.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the authentication modules fail to properly escape or sanitize user input before incorporating it into SQL queries. When a user attempts to authenticate, the system constructs SQL statements using the provided username without adequate protection against malicious input sequences. Attackers can exploit this by embedding SQL commands within the username field, effectively manipulating the underlying database query execution. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-89, which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL code into input fields for execution by the database engine. The attack vector leverages the principle of insufficient input sanitization, where the system assumes all input is benign and fails to validate or escape potentially dangerous sequences.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple authentication bypass, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the PostgreSQL database system. This capability provides adversaries with extensive access to database resources, potentially enabling data exfiltration, modification of database contents, or even privilege escalation within the database environment. The remote nature of the attack means that an attacker can exploit this vulnerability from outside the network perimeter, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that expose PostgreSQL authentication interfaces to external users. The vulnerability essentially undermines the fundamental security model of the authentication system, allowing unauthorized access to database resources that should be protected by proper authentication controls.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-1379 require immediate patching of the affected authentication modules to versions that properly implement input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement proper parameterized queries or prepared statements in all database interactions to prevent SQL injection attacks. The recommended approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which focuses on exploiting vulnerabilities in authentication systems through injection attacks. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of authentication modules to untrusted networks. Additionally, implementing proper input validation frameworks and regular security testing of authentication components can prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in future deployments. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project, particularly focusing on injection flaws and authentication bypass mechanisms that compromise database security.