Security notice: Critical vulnerability in PostgreSQL (CVE-2026-116328)
What is this about?
An integer overflow in PostgreSQL generation memory contexts can allow an authenticated database user to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the database operating-system user (Remote Code Execution). The flaw occurs when freeing memory blocks larger than 1 GB. An attack requires only a valid low-privilege database login and network access to the database; no user interaction is needed.
When is a system affected?
Affected are the PostgreSQL major versions 16, 17 and 18 before the fixed releases:
• PostgreSQL 16: fixed in 16.16
• PostgreSQL 17: fixed in 17.12
• PostgreSQL 18: fixed in 18.7
Older versions (15 and earlier) are not affected.
Our own managed systems
We reviewed our infrastructure immediately. The affected PostgreSQL instances are reachable only internally (no externally published database port) and are being updated to the fixed releases as part of regular maintenance. There is no direct access from the internet.
Recommended action for self-managed KVM and Dedicated Server customers
If you run PostgreSQL 16, 17 or 18 on your self-managed KVM or Dedicated Server, we strongly recommend updating to a fixed release (16.16 / 17.12 / 18.7 or newer). Check your installed version with "psql --version" or "SELECT version();". A minor update within the same major version requires no data migration — updating the package or container image and restarting the service is sufficient. Please take a backup beforehand.
To reduce risk until the update, we recommend restricting database access to trusted hosts and not exposing database ports publicly.
If you have any questions or require assistance updating your server, please contact support@smart-weblications.de.
Further information:
https://www.postgresql.org/support/security/CVE-2026-116328/
https://cve.now/CVE-2026-116328