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PostgreSQL Penetration Testing: A Comprehensive Guide

Ajay Naik
InfoSec Write-ups
Published in
4 min readFeb 25, 2025

PostgreSQL is a powerful open-source relational database widely used in enterprise applications. However, misconfigurations and vulnerabilities can expose it to security threats. This blog provides a detailed penetration testing guide for PostgreSQL, covering enumeration, exploitation, privilege escalation, and mitigation strategies.

1. Information Gathering (Reconnaissance)

🔍 Identifying PostgreSQL Instances

Using Nmap to Detect PostgreSQL:

nmap -p 5432 --script=pgsql-info <target>

Checking Open Ports Locally:

netstat -tulnp | grep 5432

Identifies if PostgreSQL is running on the system.

📌 Enumerating Users & Databases

Checking for Default Credentials:

postgres:postgres
postgres:admin
postgres:password

Metasploit PostgreSQL Scanner:

msfconsole
use auxiliary/scanner/postgres/postgres_login
set RHOSTS <target>
set USERNAME postgres
set PASSWORD postgres
run
  • Verifying Authentication Mode in ****pg_hba.conf: PostgreSQL authentication mode should not

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Published in InfoSec Write-ups

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Written by Ajay Naik

Cyber security Expert with a Strong Focus on Penetration Testing, Threat Intelligence, and Bug Bounty Hunting.

Responses (1)

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Great breakdown of PostgreSQL security risks! The enumeration steps are especially useful. Any thoughts on common misconfigurations that attackers exploit the most?

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