CVE-2025-13780: CRITICAL Remote Code Execution in pgAdmin | Secably CVE Database

Summary

CVE-2025-13780 is a critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability affecting pgAdmin versions up to 9.10 when running in server mode. This vulnerability allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the server hosting pgAdmin by exploiting the restore process from PLAIN-format dump files, potentially leading to complete system compromise.

Technical Details

The vulnerability, CVE-2025-13780, stems from insufficient sanitization of input during the restore process of PLAIN-format dump files in pgAdmin when operating in server mode. Attackers can craft malicious PLAIN-format dump files containing specially crafted commands that, when processed by pgAdmin during a restore operation, are executed directly on the server's operating system. This occurs because pgAdmin does not properly validate or escape commands embedded within the dump file, allowing for arbitrary code injection. The pgAdmin server mode exposes the restore functionality to remote users, increasing the attack surface. The vulnerability is triggered when an administrator or authorized user initiates a restore operation using a compromised PLAIN-format dump file. The injected code executes with the privileges of the pgAdmin process, which typically has sufficient permissions to access and modify database data, and potentially escalate privileges to compromise the entire server.

Affected Products and Versions

pgAdmin versions up to 9.10 (inclusive) when running in server mode.
Specifically, pgadmin_4 is affected.

Impact Assessment

Successful exploitation of CVE-2025-13780 can have severe consequences, including:

Complete System Compromise: Attackers can gain full control of the server hosting pgAdmin.
Data Breach: Sensitive database information can be accessed, modified, or exfiltrated.
Denial of Service: The server can be rendered unavailable, disrupting critical services.
Lateral Movement: Attackers can use the compromised server as a stepping stone to access other systems on the network.
Reputation Damage: A successful attack can severely damage the organization's reputation and customer trust.

Remediation

Immediate Actions

Upgrade pgAdmin: Upgrade to the latest version of pgAdmin, which includes a fix for this vulnerability. Ensure you are running a version greater than 9.10.
Verify Dump File Integrity: Before restoring from any PLAIN-format dump file, carefully verify its integrity and source. Only restore from trusted sources.
Disable Server Mode (If Possible): If server mode is not essential, consider disabling it to reduce the attack surface.
Monitor System Activity: Closely monitor system logs for any suspicious activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.

Long-term Solutions

Implement Input Validation: Ensure that all input, especially from external sources like dump files, is properly validated and sanitized.
Use Secure Dump Formats: Consider using more secure dump formats that are less susceptible to code injection attacks.
Principle of Least Privilege: Ensure that the pgAdmin process runs with the minimum necessary privileges to reduce the impact of a successful attack.
Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

References

Detection & Scanning

Detecting CVE-2025-13780 requires careful examination of system logs and network traffic for suspicious activity related to pgAdmin. Look for unusual process executions originating from the pgAdmin process, especially during restore operations. Network intrusion detection systems (IDS) can be configured to detect patterns associated with command injection attacks. Vulnerability scanners can also be used to identify vulnerable pgAdmin versions.

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