Buffer Over-Read Vulnerability in PostgreSQL Packages Leading to Potential Denial of Service
Summary
CVE-2025-4207: Buffer over-read in PostgreSQL GB18030 encoding validation allows a database input provider to achieve temporary denial of service on platforms where a 1-byte over-read can elicit process termination. Affects postgresql14 versions < 14.18-r0. Fixed in 14.18-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
PostgreSQL is a powerful, open-source object-relational database system known for its reliability, feature robustness, and performance. It supports various data types and is widely used in web applications, data warehousing, and analytics. The vulnerability in question affects multiple versions of PostgreSQL, specifically in the GB18030 encoding validation, which can lead to a buffer over-read, potentially causing a denial of service.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-4207 is a buffer over-read that occurs during the GB18030 encoding validation in PostgreSQL. This flaw allows a malicious database input provider to exploit the over-read, which may lead to the termination of the PostgreSQL process on certain platforms. The affected versions include PostgreSQL 13.21 and earlier, 14.18 and earlier, 15.13 and earlier, 16.9 and earlier, and 17.5 and earlier. The implications of this vulnerability are significant, as it can disrupt database services and affect applications relying on PostgreSQL for data management.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
14.18-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade postgresql14Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, consider limiting access to the PostgreSQL database to trusted users only and monitor database inputs closely to prevent potential exploitation until the patch is applied.
Conclusion
The CVE-2025-4207 vulnerability poses a significant risk to PostgreSQL installations, potentially leading to denial of service. It is crucial to update to the latest patched versions to mitigate this risk. Users are encouraged to monitor their systems and apply necessary updates promptly.
See every vulnerability recorded for postgresql14 →
FAQ
CVE-2025-4207 is a vulnerability in PostgreSQL that allows for a buffer over-read during GB18030 encoding validation, potentially leading to denial of service.
Affected versions include PostgreSQL 13.21 and earlier, 14.18 and earlier, 15.13 and earlier, 16.9 and earlier, and 17.5 and earlier.
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Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to a denial of service, causing disruptions in database services and affecting applications that depend on PostgreSQL.
You can update PostgreSQL by running the command: sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install postgresql-<version>, replacing <version> with the patched version number.
Related vulnerabilities
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