CVE-2018-1052 in PostgreSQL
Summary
by MITRE
Memory disclosure vulnerability in table partitioning was found in postgresql 10.x before 10.2, allowing an authenticated attacker to read arbitrary bytes of server memory via purpose-crafted insert to a partitioned table.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-1052 represents a critical memory disclosure flaw within the PostgreSQL database management system affecting versions 10.x prior to 10.2. This vulnerability resides in the table partitioning functionality and constitutes a significant security risk that can be exploited by authenticated attackers to gain access to sensitive server memory contents. The flaw manifests when maliciously crafted insert operations are performed against partitioned tables, enabling unauthorized memory access that could potentially reveal confidential information such as database credentials, encryption keys, or other sensitive data stored in memory.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within PostgreSQL's partitioning implementation. When processing insert operations on partitioned tables, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize the data being inserted, creating a pathway for attackers to manipulate memory access patterns. This memory disclosure occurs because the database engine does not adequately protect against malformed insert statements that can cause the system to expose memory contents beyond the intended data boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects the handling of partitioned table operations where the system's internal memory structures become accessible through crafted insert commands.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a substantial risk to database security and data integrity. An authenticated attacker with access to the database can leverage this flaw to extract arbitrary bytes from server memory, potentially obtaining sensitive information that could be used for further attacks. The disclosed memory contents might include database connection details, user credentials, encryption keys, or other confidential information that could compromise the entire database infrastructure. The attack requires only authentication to the database system, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by insiders or compromised legitimate users. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which categorizes improper output handling and memory exposure issues, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1005 for data from local system and T1041 for data encryption.
The exploitation of CVE-2018-1052 demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management in database systems. Organizations running PostgreSQL 10.x versions before 10.2 should prioritize immediate patching to address this vulnerability, as the memory disclosure could lead to complete system compromise. The recommended mitigation strategy involves upgrading to PostgreSQL version 10.2 or later, which includes fixes specifically designed to prevent unauthorized memory access through partitioned table operations. Additionally, administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit authentication access to database systems, reducing the attack surface for potential exploitation. Regular security audits and monitoring for unusual database activity patterns can also help detect potential exploitation attempts, while maintaining comprehensive backup and recovery procedures ensures business continuity in case of successful attacks.