PostgreSQL allows developers to create their own functions, known as UDFs (User Defined Functions). These functions can be used to perform a variety of tasks within the database, such as data manipulation or analysis. However, if a UDF is not properly secured, it could potentially be exploited by a malicious actor to execute arbitrary code, such as shellcode, on the server.

To exploit a UDF, an attacker would need to have sufficient privileges to register a new function. This may be achieved through a vulnerability in an application connected to the database, such as a SQL injection. The attacker could then create and register a UDF that contains the desired shellcode, and trigger it to execute on the server.

It is important to note that this is just one example of how a UDF could potentially be exploited. It is crucial to secure your database and applications to prevent such attacks from being successful. This includes properly input validation, sanitization, and proper user privilege management.

2 years, 6 months ago