CVE-2007-2138 in PostgreSQL
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in PostgreSQL before 7.3.19, 7.4.x before 7.4.17, 8.0.x before 8.0.13, 8.1.x before 8.1.9, and 8.2.x before 8.2.4 allows remote authenticated users, when permitted to call a SECURITY DEFINER function, to gain the privileges of the function owner, related to "search_path settings."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/08/2025
This vulnerability resides in the PostgreSQL database management system and represents a significant privilege escalation risk through untrusted search path manipulation. The flaw specifically affects versions prior to the mentioned patches across multiple release branches, creating a persistent security weakness that impacts database administrators and security-conscious organizations. The vulnerability operates through the search_path configuration parameter which determines the order in which PostgreSQL searches for database objects, making it a critical component in database security architecture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the interaction between SECURITY DEFINER functions and the search_path setting. When an authenticated user possesses the ability to invoke a SECURITY DEFINER function, they can manipulate the search_path to include untrusted directories or schemas. This manipulation allows the attacker to execute arbitrary code or access data with the privileges of the function owner, effectively bypassing normal access controls. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal attack vector where the database's object resolution mechanism is leveraged to execute malicious code with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, creating potential for data exfiltration, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. Database administrators who have configured SECURITY DEFINER functions with elevated privileges become particularly vulnerable, as attackers can leverage these functions to gain access to data that should be restricted. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privileges, and represents a significant concern in database security management practices. The attack requires only authenticated access to the database, making it particularly dangerous in environments where database users have legitimate access but should not possess elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate patching of affected PostgreSQL versions to the recommended secure releases, which address the search_path handling in SECURITY DEFINER contexts. Database administrators should also review and restrict the use of SECURITY DEFINER functions, ensuring that these functions are properly audited and that the search_path is explicitly set to trusted locations. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege management practices, including the principle of least privilege, significantly reduces the attack surface. Organizations should consider monitoring for suspicious function calls and implementing database activity monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1566 for social engineering attacks that could lead to exploitation.