CVE-2007-3278 in PostgreSQL
Summary
by MITRE
PostgreSQL 8.1 and probably later versions, when local trust authentication is enabled and the Database Link library (dblink) is installed, allows remote attackers to access arbitrary accounts and execute arbitrary SQL queries via a dblink host parameter that proxies the connection from 127.0.0.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-3278 represents a critical authentication bypass flaw in PostgreSQL database systems that has significant implications for database security. This vulnerability specifically affects PostgreSQL versions 8.1 and later when certain configuration conditions are met, creating a pathway for remote attackers to escalate privileges and execute unauthorized database operations. The flaw exploits the interaction between local trust authentication and the Database Link library, which is a PostgreSQL extension designed to enable database connections across network boundaries. When these components are combined in the specified configuration, the vulnerability creates an unexpected attack vector that undermines the fundamental security assumptions of the database system.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the improper handling of the dblink host parameter within the context of local trust authentication. In PostgreSQL, trust authentication allows connections from local users without requiring password verification, which is typically considered safe for localhost connections. However, when the dblink extension is installed and a remote attacker can influence the host parameter in dblink function calls, the system incorrectly interprets the connection proxying through 127.0.0.1 as a legitimate local connection. This misinterpretation occurs because the trust authentication mechanism does not properly validate the actual network source of the connection request, allowing attackers to bypass authentication controls. The vulnerability stems from CWE-284, which addresses improper access control mechanisms, specifically the failure to properly validate authentication contexts when proxying connections through trusted local interfaces.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for organizations relying on PostgreSQL databases. Attackers can leverage this flaw to access arbitrary database accounts, potentially gaining access to sensitive data and administrative privileges without proper authentication. The ability to execute arbitrary SQL queries through this vector means that attackers can perform data manipulation, information disclosure, and potentially disrupt database operations. This vulnerability essentially allows remote code execution within the database context, making it particularly dangerous for systems where database administrators have elevated privileges. The attack can be executed from any remote location, making it difficult to detect and defend against, as it exploits the legitimate trust relationship that should only exist between local processes and the database server.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations to protect their PostgreSQL installations. The most effective approach involves disabling the dblink extension if it is not essential for database operations, as this removes the attack surface entirely. Alternatively, administrators should reconfigure trust authentication to be more restrictive, ensuring that local connections are properly validated and that the dblink functionality is not exposed to remote attackers. Network-level protections such as firewall rules that restrict access to database ports and the implementation of stronger authentication mechanisms should also be considered. According to ATT&CK framework category T1190, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving exploitation of remote services and trust relationships, while the remediation strategies correspond to defensive measures under T1566 and T1078. Organizations should also conduct thorough security audits to identify other potential trust relationship vulnerabilities and ensure that database access controls are properly configured across all systems. Regular updates and patch management processes should be implemented to address similar vulnerabilities in database systems and maintain overall security posture.