CVE-2018-19518 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2018-19518, a vulnerability in the University of Washington's IMAP Toolkit 2007f on UNIX, allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary OS commands. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
The University of Washington's IMAP Toolkit 2007f on UNIX has a vulnerability when used in PHP and other products with the imap_open() function. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary OS commands if the IMAP server name is not trusted and if the rsh command has been replaced by a program with different argument semantics. Proper input validation is crucial to mitigate this issue.
Understanding CVE-2018-19518
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the University of Washington's IMAP Toolkit 2007f on UNIX, affecting systems using the imap_open() function in PHP and other related products.
What is CVE-2018-19518?
The vulnerability in the IMAP Toolkit allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary OS commands by manipulating the IMAP server name, particularly when the rsh command has been altered to have different argument semantics.
The Impact of CVE-2018-19518
- Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary OS commands on affected systems.
- The issue arises when untrusted input is provided as the IMAP server name, potentially leading to unauthorized command execution.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-19518
The technical aspects of this CVE provide insights into the vulnerability's description, affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in the IMAP Toolkit allows for the execution of arbitrary OS commands due to improper handling of the IMAP server name, especially when the rsh command has been modified.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the IMAP server name, particularly by including a "-oProxyCommand" argument.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2018-19518, it is essential to implement immediate steps and adopt long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Implement proper input validation when handling the IMAP server name.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch systems to prevent vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security updates and patches related to the IMAP Toolkit and associated products.