CVE-2021-40111 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the impact of CVE-2021-40111, a vulnerability in Apache James allowing DoS attacks by exploiting the IMAP parsing stack. Learn how to mitigate the risk with recommended steps.
Apache James IMAP parsing Denial Of Service vulnerability.
Understanding CVE-2021-40111
A critical vulnerability in Apache James related to IMAP parsing leading to Denial Of Service.
What is CVE-2021-40111?
A vulnerability in Apache James allowed crafted IMAP commands to trigger infinite loops, causing CPU exhaustion and potential DoS attacks.
The Impact of CVE-2021-40111
Exploiting this vulnerability could result in high CPU usage and OutOfMemory exceptions, leading to Denial Of Service attacks.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-40111
Details of the vulnerability, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The issue in Apache James enabled exploitation through specific IMAP commands, requiring user authentication for impact.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Apache James
- Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
- Versions affected: <= 3.6.0
Exploitation Mechanism
By sending carefully crafted APPEND and STATUS IMAP commands, an attacker could induce infinite loops for DoS.
Mitigation and Prevention
Ways to mitigate the CVE-2021-40111 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade Apache James to version 3.6.1 or higher to patch the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and update your software to prevent future vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches and updates provided by Apache Software Foundation to ensure system security.