Learn about CVE-2022-1552, a PostgreSQL vulnerability enabling privilege escalation, affecting versions like postgresql 14.3, 13.7, 12.11, 11.16, 10.21. Discover impact, exploitation, and mitigation steps.
A flaw was found in PostgreSQL that allows an attacker to execute arbitrary SQL functions under a superuser identity. The issue arises due to incomplete efforts to operate safely when a privileged user is maintaining another user's objects.
Understanding CVE-2022-1552
This section provides insights into the impact and technical details of CVE-2022-1552.
What is CVE-2022-1552?
CVE-2022-1552 is a vulnerability in PostgreSQL that enables an attacker to execute arbitrary SQL functions under a superuser identity by exploiting incomplete safety measures during privileged user operations.
The Impact of CVE-2022-1552
The vulnerability allows an attacker with specific permissions to create non-temporary objects in a schema to execute arbitrary SQL functions as a superuser, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or manipulation.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-1552
This section outlines the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in PostgreSQL results in incomplete efforts to handle operations safely when a privileged user is managing another user's objects. This omission allows the execution of arbitrary SQL functions under a superuser identity.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability affects PostgreSQL versions including postgresql 14.3, postgresql 13.7, postgresql 12.11, postgresql 11.16, and postgresql 10.21.
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker with permission to create specific non-temporary objects in a schema can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary SQL functions as a superuser.
Mitigation and Prevention
To safeguard your systems, immediate steps should be followed, accompanied by long-term security practices and timely patching.
Immediate Steps to Take
Ensure that proper access controls are in place, restrict user permissions, and monitor for any unusual SQL activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update and patch PostgreSQL installations, implement least privilege access, and educate users on secure SQL practices.
Patching and Updates
Refer to official PostgreSQL and vendor advisories for patches and updates to mitigate CVE-2022-1552.