CVE-2005-2878 in Mailutils
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in search.c in the imap4d server in GNU Mailutils 0.6 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in the SEARCH command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2878 represents a critical format string flaw within the GNU Mailutils imap4d server component. This security weakness exists in the search.c file and specifically affects version 0.6 of the mail utility suite. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows authenticated remote attackers to exploit the format string vulnerability through the SEARCH command of the IMAP4 protocol implementation. The flaw occurs when the server processes user-supplied input without proper sanitization, creating an opportunity for malicious code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of format string arguments within the IMAP4 server's search functionality. When an authenticated user submits a SEARCH command containing malicious format specifiers, the server's processing logic fails to properly validate or escape these inputs before using them in printf-style functions. This creates a classic format string vulnerability where attacker-controlled data can be interpreted as format specifiers, potentially leading to stack manipulation, information disclosure, or arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-134 which specifically addresses the use of format strings with user-controlled data.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-2878 extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it enables remote code execution in the context of the imap4d server process. An authenticated attacker who can establish an IMAP session can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands on the mail server with the privileges of the imap4d process. This could result in complete server compromise, data exfiltration, or further network infiltration. The attack requires only authentication credentials, making it particularly concerning for systems where IMAP services are exposed to untrusted networks. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would allow execution of arbitrary commands through the compromised mail server.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the GNU Mailutils software to version 0.7 or later, where the format string vulnerability has been addressed. System administrators should also implement network segmentation to limit access to IMAP services and ensure that only trusted users have authentication credentials. Additional protective measures include monitoring for unusual SEARCH command usage patterns and implementing proper input validation at all levels of the application stack. The fix typically involves ensuring that user-supplied data is properly escaped or formatted before being used in printf-family functions, preventing the exploitation of format string vulnerabilities through the IMAP4 SEARCH command interface.