Heap Buffer Overflow in PostgreSQL pgcrypto Affects Multiple Versions
CVE-2026-2005

8.8HIGH

Key Information:

Vendor

PostgreSQL
Status
Postgresql
Vendor
CVE Published:
12 February 2026

Badges

👾 Exploit Exists🟡 Public PoC

What is CVE-2026-2005?

The pgcrypto module in PostgreSQL contains a heap buffer overflow vulnerability that can be exploited by a ciphertext provider. This vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the operating system user that is running the database. Importantly, this affects various versions of PostgreSQL prior to the latest releases, making it crucial for users to upgrade to the patched versions to safeguard against potential exploits.

Affected Version(s)

PostgreSQL 18 < 18.2

PostgreSQL 17 < 17.8

PostgreSQL 16 < 16.12

Exploit Proof of Concept (PoC)

PoC code is written by security researchers to demonstrate the vulnerability can be exploited. PoC code is also a key component for weaponization which could lead to ransomware.

CVE-2026-2005
Created by var77

References

https://www.postgresql.org/support/security/CVE-2026-2005/

CVSS V3.1

Score:
8.8
Severity:
HIGH
Confidentiality:
High
Integrity:
High
Availability:
High
Attack Vector:
Network
Attack Complexity:
Low
Privileges Required:
Low
User Interaction:
None
Scope:
Unchanged

Timeline

  • 🟡

    Public PoC available

  • 👾

    Exploit known to exist

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

Credit

The PostgreSQL project thanks Team Xint Code, as part of zeroday.cloud, for reporting this problem.
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