CVE-2026-1707 is a vulnerability in pgAdmin 4 version 9.11 that allows an authenticated attacker with access to the pgAdmin web interface to bypass restore restrictions during database restore operations from PLAIN-format dump files. The vulnerability arises because during a restore operation, the system uses a `\restrict` key to disable meta-commands for security. However, an attacker can observe this key in real time and perform a race condition attack by overwriting the restore script with a payload that uses the `\unrestrict <key>` command to re-enable meta-commands. This effectively allows the attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the host running pgAdmin during the restore process. The attack vector is network-based (remote) and requires low complexity but does require privileges to access the pgAdmin interface (authenticated user). The vulnerability affects confidentiality (exposure of the key), integrity (modification of restore scripts), and availability (potential disruption or takeover of the host). The CVSS 3.1 score is 7.4 (high), reflecting the significant impact and ease of exploitation once authenticated. No patches or known exploits are currently reported, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed as of February 2026.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially for those relying on pgAdmin 4 version 9.11 in server mode for managing PostgreSQL databases. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary command execution on the database management host, potentially compromising sensitive data confidentiality, altering database contents, or disrupting database availability. This can affect critical infrastructure, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and any sector relying on PostgreSQL databases managed via pgAdmin. The requirement for authenticated access limits exposure but insider threats or compromised credentials could enable exploitation. The ability to execute commands on the host could lead to lateral movement within networks, data exfiltration, or deployment of ransomware. Given the widespread use of PostgreSQL and pgAdmin in Europe, the impact could be broad if mitigations are not applied promptly.

1. Upgrade pgAdmin 4 to a version later than 9.11 once a patch is released to address CVE-2026-1707. 2. Restrict access to the pgAdmin web interface using network segmentation, VPNs, or IP whitelisting to limit authenticated user access only to trusted personnel. 3. Enforce strong authentication mechanisms including multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce risk from compromised credentials. 4. Monitor restore operations closely and audit logs for unusual activity or unauthorized restore attempts. 5. Temporarily avoid performing restores from PLAIN-format dump files via pgAdmin server mode or perform restores using alternative trusted methods until patched. 6. Implement host-based intrusion detection to detect suspicious command execution during restore operations. 7. Educate database administrators about this vulnerability and the importance of securing pgAdmin interfaces. 8. Regularly review and rotate credentials used for pgAdmin access to minimize risk of credential theft.