PostgreSQL Penetration Testing: A Comprehensive Guide

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…