ReviewHigh

CVE-2026-16238

PostgreSQL, postgresql

Type confusion in PostgreSQL pg_restore_attribute_stats() allows an object creator to execute arbitrary code as the operating system user running the database, via conflation of range and multirange values. Within major version 18, minor versions before PostgreSQL 18.5 are affected. Versions before PostgreSQL 18 are unaffected.

CVSS
8.8
EPSS
0.41%
34.5% percentile
CISA KEV
Not listed
Published
2026.08.13
PRIORITY ASSESSMENT

Review

The CVSS severity warrants an early asset and exposure review.

Known exploitationNot established by KEV
Exploit probability0.41%
Technical severityCVSS 8.8

Vulnerability overview

Type confusion in PostgreSQL pg_restore_attribute_stats() allows an object creator to execute arbitrary code as the operating system user running the database, via conflation of range and multirange values. Within major version 18, minor versions before PostgreSQL 18.5 are affected. Versions before PostgreSQL 18 are unaffected.

Affected product and versions

Product
PostgreSQL, postgresql
Affected versions
>= 18 < 18.5, >= 14.0 < 14.24, >= 15.0 < 15.19, >= 16.0 < 16.15, >= 17.0 < 17.11, >= 18.0 < 18.5
Fixed versions
Verify the fixed release separately for each affected product line

Recommended response sequence

Confirm exposure before applying a vendor-supported change.

Full remediation guide
  1. 1
    Identify

    Confirm that PostgreSQL, postgresql and an affected version are present.

  2. 2
    Prioritize

    Combine exploitation signals with asset exposure and business criticality.

  3. 3
    Remediate

    Follow the vendor advisory or supported update path and preserve rollback options.

  4. 4
    Verify

    Recheck the version, service health, access paths, and relevant logs.

Technical data

CVSS vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CWE
CWE-843
CVE-2026-16238 — PostgreSQL, postgresql | SECUFOCUS NOW