Description
pgAdmin versions up to 9.10 are affected by a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability that occurs when running in server mode and performing restores from PLAIN-format dump files. This issue allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the server hosting pgAdmin, posing a critical risk to the integrity and security of the database management system and underlying data.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-202720
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability EUVD-2025-202720 affects pgAdmin versions up to 9.10 and is classified as a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability. The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) base score of 9.1 indicates a critical severity level. The CVSS vector CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:L/A:L breaks down as follows:
- AV:N - Attack Vector: Network, meaning the vulnerability is exploitable remotely.
- AC:L - Attack Complexity: Low, indicating that the attack is relatively easy to execute.
- PR:L - Privileges Required: Low, suggesting that minimal privileges are needed to exploit the vulnerability.
- UI:N - User Interaction: None, meaning no user interaction is required for the attack to succeed.
- S:C - Scope: Changed, indicating that the vulnerability affects components beyond the initial security scope.
- C:H - Confidentiality: High, suggesting a significant impact on data confidentiality.
- I:L - Integrity: Low, indicating a moderate impact on data integrity.
- A:L - Availability: Low, suggesting a moderate impact on system availability.
Given these factors, the vulnerability poses a critical risk to the integrity and security of the database management system and underlying data.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
The primary attack vector involves exploiting the vulnerability when pgAdmin is running in server mode and performing restores from PLAIN-format dump files. An attacker could inject malicious commands into these dump files, which would then be executed on the server hosting pgAdmin. This could lead to:
- Arbitrary Command Execution: Attackers can run any command on the server, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system compromise, or further lateral movement within the network.
- Data Manipulation: Attackers could alter or delete critical data, affecting the integrity of the database.
- Persistent Access: Attackers could install backdoors or other malicious software to maintain persistent access to the system.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
The vulnerability affects pgAdmin versions up to 9.10. Organizations using these versions in server mode are particularly at risk. It is crucial to identify and update all instances of pgAdmin running in server mode to mitigate this risk.
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
- Immediate Patching: Upgrade to the latest version of pgAdmin that addresses this vulnerability.
- Network Segmentation: Implement strict network segmentation to limit access to the pgAdmin server.
- Access Controls: Enforce strict access controls and authentication mechanisms to ensure only authorized users can interact with the pgAdmin server.
- Input Validation: Implement robust input validation and sanitization for all data being processed by pgAdmin, especially during restore operations.
- Monitoring and Logging: Enhance monitoring and logging to detect any unusual activities or attempts to exploit the vulnerability.
- Regular Audits: Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and mitigate similar risks proactively.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to European organizations relying on pgAdmin for database management. Given the critical nature of the RCE vulnerability, it could lead to widespread data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. The European Union's emphasis on data protection and privacy, as outlined in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), underscores the importance of addressing this vulnerability promptly. Failure to do so could result in regulatory penalties and legal consequences.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
- Vulnerability Identification: The vulnerability is identified by EUVD ID EUVD-2025-202720 and CVE ID CVE-2025-13780.
- Affected Product: pgAdmin 4, versions up to 9.10.
- Vendor: pgadmin.org.
- References:
Security professionals should prioritize the identification and remediation of this vulnerability in their environments. Regular updates and adherence to best practices in database management and security will help mitigate the risk posed by this and similar vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The RCE vulnerability in pgAdmin versions up to 9.10 is a critical concern for organizations using this software. Immediate action, including patching and implementing robust security measures, is essential to protect against potential exploitation. The European cybersecurity landscape demands vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard data and systems against such threats.