CVE-2019-9193

CVE-2019-9193 is a high-severity vulnerability in Postgresql with a CVSS 3.x base score of 7.2. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score of 92% places it in the 100th percentile, indicating an elevated likelihood of exploitation. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-78.

Key facts

Description

In PostgreSQL 9.3 through 11.2, the "COPY TO/FROM PROGRAM" function allows superusers and users in the 'pg_execute_server_program' group to execute arbitrary code in the context of the database's operating system user. This functionality is enabled by default and can be abused to run arbitrary operating system commands on Windows, Linux, and macOS. NOTE: Third parties claim/state this is not an issue because PostgreSQL functionality for ‘COPY TO/FROM PROGRAM’ is acting as intended. References state that in PostgreSQL, a superuser can execute commands as the server user without using the ‘COPY FROM PROGRAM’.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2019-9193?
In PostgreSQL 9.3 through 11.2, the "COPY TO/FROM PROGRAM" function allows superusers and users in the 'pg_execute_server_program' group to execute arbitrary code in the context of the database's operating system user. This functionality is enabled by default and can be abused to run arbitrary operating system commands on Windows, Linux, and macOS. NOTE: Third parties claim/state this is not an issue because PostgreSQL functionality for ‘COPY TO/FROM PROGRAM’ is acting as intended. References state that in PostgreSQL, a superuser can execute commands as the server user without using the ‘COPY FROM PROGRAM’.
How severe is CVE-2019-9193?
CVE-2019-9193 has a CVSS 3.x base score of 7.2, rated high severity. It is exploitable over network with low attack complexity, requires high privileges and no user interaction. Impact on confidentiality is high, integrity high, and availability high.
Is CVE-2019-9193 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 92% (100th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2019-9193?
CVE-2019-9193 affects Postgresql. See the affected-products list for the exact vulnerable versions.
How do I fix CVE-2019-9193?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-2019-9193 published?
CVE-2019-9193 was published on 2019-04-01 and last updated on 2026-06-17.

References

Affected products (1)

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