CVE-2020-1720 : What You Need to Know

A flaw in PostgreSQL's "ALTER ... DEPENDS ON EXTENSION" allows for unauthorized sub-command execution, potentially leading to database corruption across multiple affected versions.

Understanding CVE-2020-1720

This CVE involves a vulnerability in PostgreSQL's authorization checks, enabling authenticated attackers to manipulate database objects.

What is CVE-2020-1720?

PostgreSQL versions before 12.2, 11.7, 10.12, and 9.6.17 are susceptible to a flaw that circumvents authorization checks, allowing for unauthorized object drops.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1720

The vulnerability can result in database corruption and unauthorized access to sensitive information, posing a risk to data integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1720

The technical aspects of the vulnerability are crucial to understand for effective mitigation.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in PostgreSQL's "ALTER ... DEPENDS ON EXTENSION" sub-commands bypasses authorization checks, enabling authenticated exploiters to drop crucial database objects.

Affected Systems and Versions

PostgreSQL versions before 12.2, 11.7, 10.12, and 9.6.17

Exploitation Mechanism

This vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated attackers to execute unauthorized actions like dropping functions and triggers, leading to database corruption.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent the CVE is essential for maintaining system security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to PostgreSQL versions 12.2, 11.7, 10.12, or 9.6.17 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to prevent unauthorized changes to database objects.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update database access controls to limit potential exploitation avenues.
Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by PostgreSQL to address this vulnerability and enhance system security.