CVE-2021-47853
Unknown Unknown - Not Provided
Remote Command Execution via SQL Injection in phpPgAdmin

Publication date: 2026-01-21

Last updated on: 2026-01-21

Assigner: VulnCheck

Description
phpPgAdmin 7.13.0 contains a remote command execution vulnerability that allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary system commands through SQL query manipulation. Attackers can create a custom table, upload a malicious .txt file, and use the COPY FROM PROGRAM command to execute operating system commands with the application's privileges.
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Meta Information
Published
2026-01-21
Last Modified
2026-01-21
Generated
2026-06-16
AI Q&A
2026-01-21
EPSS Evaluated
2026-01-31
NVD
CVE-2021-47853
Affected Vendors & Products
Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
phppgadmin phppgadmin to 7.13.0 (exc)
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
CWE
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KEV
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CWE ID Description
CWE-78 The product constructs all or part of an OS command using externally-influenced input from an upstream component, but it does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes special elements that could modify the intended OS command when it is sent to a downstream component.
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Executive Summary

This vulnerability in phpPgAdmin 7.13.0 allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary operating system commands remotely. The attacker first creates a custom table, then uploads a malicious .txt file containing a SQL statement that uses the PostgreSQL "COPY FROM PROGRAM" command. This command executes OS commands with the application's privileges. The attacker can then retrieve the output of these commands, effectively gaining remote command execution and control over the system. [1, 2]

Impact Analysis

This vulnerability can lead to a complete compromise of the system running phpPgAdmin. An attacker with valid authentication can execute arbitrary system commands with the application's privileges, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, data modification, system disruption, or full system takeover. [1, 2]

Detection Guidance

Detection involves checking for the presence of the vulnerable phpPgAdmin version 7.13.0 and monitoring for suspicious SQL queries that use the COPY FROM PROGRAM command. Specifically, you can look for SQL queries that create a table named 'cmd_exec' and use COPY commands like: COPY cmd_exec FROM PROGRAM 'id; cd /root; ls';. To detect exploitation attempts, monitor logs for such SQL commands or unusual file uploads of .txt files containing SQL statements. There is no direct network command provided, but reviewing database query logs and uploaded files for these patterns is recommended. [1, 2]

Mitigation Strategies

Immediate mitigation steps include upgrading phpPgAdmin to a version later than 7.13.0 where this vulnerability is fixed. Restrict access to phpPgAdmin to trusted users only, as the vulnerability requires authenticated access with high privileges. Additionally, monitor and restrict the ability to upload files and execute SQL commands that use COPY FROM PROGRAM. Applying principle of least privilege to the database user running phpPgAdmin can also reduce risk. [2, 3]

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