CVE-2023-39417 is a SQL Injection vulnerability identified in Red Hat Advanced Cluster Security 4.2, specifically related to PostgreSQL extension scripts. The vulnerability occurs when the extension script improperly neutralizes special elements such as @extowner@, @extschema@, or @extschema:...@ within quoting constructs like dollar quoting, single quotes, or double quotes. This improper neutralization allows an attacker who has database-level CREATE privileges to inject malicious SQL commands. If exploited, the attacker can execute arbitrary code with bootstrap superuser privileges, effectively gaining full control over the database and potentially the host system. The vulnerability requires the presence of vulnerable, trusted, non-bundled extensions installed by an administrator, which means the attack surface is limited to environments where such extensions exist. The CVSS score of 7.5 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with network attack vector but requiring high attack complexity and low privileges. No user interaction is needed, and the scope remains unchanged. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the potential for severe damage necessitates immediate attention. The vulnerability highlights the risks associated with extension scripts in PostgreSQL and the importance of secure coding practices in database management systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Red Hat Advanced Cluster Security and PostgreSQL in enterprise and critical infrastructure environments. Successful exploitation can lead to complete database compromise, exposing sensitive data, disrupting services, and enabling lateral movement within networks. The ability to execute arbitrary code as a bootstrap superuser elevates the threat to full system compromise, potentially affecting availability and integrity of critical applications. Organizations in sectors such as finance, telecommunications, government, and healthcare are particularly vulnerable due to the sensitive nature of their data and reliance on secure database operations. The requirement for database-level CREATE privileges limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments with complex privilege assignments or insufficient privilege separation. The lack of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high severity score underscores the urgency of addressing this vulnerability to prevent potential targeted attacks.

1. Immediately review and apply any available patches or updates from Red Hat for Advanced Cluster Security and PostgreSQL extensions to address this vulnerability. 2. Audit and restrict database-level privileges, specifically the CREATE privilege, to the minimum necessary users and roles to reduce the attack surface. 3. Conduct a thorough inventory of installed PostgreSQL extensions, focusing on non-bundled and trusted extensions, and assess their necessity and security posture. 4. Implement strict input validation and sanitization practices for any database operations involving extension scripts or dynamic SQL generation. 5. Employ database activity monitoring and anomaly detection to identify unusual CREATE operations or privilege escalations. 6. Use role-based access control (RBAC) and principle of least privilege (PoLP) to limit administrative access to database components. 7. Regularly back up critical databases and verify recovery procedures to mitigate impact in case of compromise. 8. Engage in security awareness training for database administrators regarding secure extension management and privilege assignment. 9. Consider network segmentation and isolation of database servers to limit exposure to potential attackers. 10. Monitor security advisories from Red Hat and PostgreSQL communities for updates or emerging exploit information.