CVE-2020-10958 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-10958, a vulnerability in Dovecot before 2.3.10.1 allowing unauthenticated use-after-free bug exploitation via crafted SMTP/LMTP messages, leading to crashes.
In Dovecot before 2.3.10.1, a crafted SMTP/LMTP message triggers an unauthenticated use-after-free bug in submission-login, submission, or lmtp, leading to a crash under specific circumstances.
Understanding CVE-2020-10958
What is CVE-2020-10958?
CVE-2020-10958 is a vulnerability in Dovecot versions before 2.3.10.1 that allows an attacker to exploit an unauthenticated use-after-free bug via a specially crafted SMTP/LMTP message.
The Impact of CVE-2020-10958
The vulnerability can result in a crash of the submission-login, submission, or lmtp components of Dovecot when triggered by a malicious message containing multiple newlines after a command.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-10958
Vulnerability Description
- Type: Unauthenticated use-after-free bug
- Trigger: Crafted SMTP/LMTP message
- Component: submission-login, submission, or lmtp
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Version: Dovecot before 2.3.10.1
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Network
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: None
- Scope: Unchanged
- CVSS Base Score: 5.3 (Medium)
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Dovecot to version 2.3.10.1 or later
- Monitor for any unusual SMTP/LMTP message patterns
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and apply security patches
- Implement network segmentation and access controls
Patching and Updates
- Apply the latest security patches provided by Dovecot