GEN:SID | 1:1930 |
Message | IMAP auth literal overflow attempt |
Summary | This event is generated when a remote attacker sends an overly long argument in the AUTH command to an internal IMAP server, indicating an attempt to exploit a buffer overflow vulnerability in Netscape Messaging Server and University of Washington IMAP implementations.
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Impact | Remote execution of arbitrary code with the security privileges of the IMAP process, possibly leading to remote root compromise.
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Detailed Information | A buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the AUTHENTICATE command in University of Washington IMAP and Netscape Messaging Server. This can allow a remote attacker to send an AUTHENTICATE command with a malformed, overlong argument to a vulnerable IMAP server, causing a buffer overflow condition. The attacker can then execute arbitrary code on the server with the security privileges of the IMAP server process.
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Affected Systems | Any operating system running Netscape Messaging Server 3.55 and earlier or University of Washington imapd 10.234 and earlier.
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Attack Scenarios | An attacker sends an overly long, malformed argument to an AUTHENTICATE command to a vulnerable IMAP server, causing a buffer overflow condition. The attacker is then able to execute arbitrary code on the server with the security privileges of the IMAP server process.
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Ease of Attack | Simple. Exploits exist.
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Corrective Action | Patches have been released for both UW IMAP and Netscape Messaging Server. Apply the patch or upgrade to a Netscape Messaging Server version higher than 3.55 or UW IMAP version higher than 10.234.
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Additional References | Bugtraq http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/130
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Rule References | cve: 1999-0005
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