CVE-2002-1397 in PostgreSQL
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the cash_words() function for PostgreSQL 7.2 and earlier allows local users to cause a denial of service and possibly execute arbitrary code via a large negative argument, possibly triggering an integer signedness error or buffer overflow.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1397 represents a critical security flaw within the PostgreSQL database management system version 7.2 and earlier releases. This issue resides within the cash_words() function which processes monetary data representations, specifically designed to convert numeric cash values into their English word equivalents. The flaw manifests when the function receives a large negative argument, creating conditions that can lead to system instability and potential privilege escalation. The vulnerability affects systems where PostgreSQL is installed with default configurations and is particularly concerning due to its potential for both denial of service and arbitrary code execution.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and handling within the cash_words() function implementation. When processing large negative values, the function encounters integer signedness errors that can result in unpredictable behavior within the memory management subsystem. This condition occurs because the function does not adequately validate the range of input parameters before processing them, allowing maliciously crafted negative arguments to trigger buffer overflow conditions. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-190, Integer Overflow or Wraparound, and CWE-121, Stack-based Buffer Overflow, as the system fails to properly handle boundary conditions for integer parameters. The lack of proper input sanitization creates an environment where attackers can manipulate memory layout through carefully constructed input data.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-1397 extends beyond simple service disruption to potentially enable full system compromise. Local attackers who can execute code within the PostgreSQL environment can leverage this vulnerability to cause denial of service conditions that may prevent legitimate database operations from completing successfully. More critically, the buffer overflow conditions can be exploited to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the PostgreSQL service account, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive database information, modify data integrity, or establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, Valid Accounts, and T1499, Endpoint Termination, as it can be used to compromise database endpoints and terminate legitimate processes.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations to address this vulnerability by upgrading to PostgreSQL versions 7.3 or later where the issue has been resolved through proper input validation and integer handling mechanisms. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as restricting local access to PostgreSQL installations, monitoring for unusual database activity patterns, and applying the principle of least privilege to database service accounts. The fix implemented in newer PostgreSQL versions addresses the underlying integer signedness error through enhanced parameter validation and proper boundary checking. Security teams should also conduct vulnerability assessments to identify systems running affected PostgreSQL versions and prioritize remediation efforts based on the criticality of database operations. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection while implementing the necessary software updates to fully address the vulnerability.