CVE-2026-6475
PostgreSQL pg_basebackup and pg_rewind can overwrite unrelated files of origin superuser choice
- Published
- May 14, 2026
- Updated
- May 15, 2026
- Assigning CNA
- PostgreSQL
- Evidence observed
- Oct 13, 2026
Primary CVSS
nvd · CVSS 3.1
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:HLow · next 30 days
- Percentile
- 23.8%
- Model date
- Oct 15, 2026
EPSS is a statistical estimate, not a certainty or a measure of impact. Combine it with CVSS, KEV status, exposure and your environment.
Summary
Symlink following in PostgreSQL pg_basebackup plain format and in pg_rewind allows an origin superuser to overwrite local files, e.g. /var/lib/postgres/.bashrc, that hijack the operating system account. It will remain the case that starting the server after these commands implicitly trusts the origin superuser, due to features like shared_preload_libraries. Hence, the attack has practical implications only if one takes relevant action between these commands and server start, like moving the files to a different VM or snapshotting the VM. Versions before PostgreSQL 18.4, 17.10, 16.14, 15.18, and 14.23 are affected.
Sources
PostgreSQL 18.6 - High - Remote - File write - pg_basebackup follows absolute tar symlink leftover of CVE-2026-6475
Responsible use
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