Integer Underflow Vulnerability in Mutt Package - CVE-2018-14353
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2018-14353: An issue was discovered in Mutt before 1.10.1 and NeoMutt before 2018-07-16. imap_quote_string in imap/util.c has an integer underflow. Affects mutt versions < 1.10.1-r0. Fixed in 1.10.1-r0. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
Mutt is a popular open-source email client known for its powerful features and flexibility. It supports various protocols, including IMAP, POP3, and SMTP, allowing users to manage their emails efficiently. The package is widely used in Unix-like operating systems, including Alpine Linux. However, prior to version 1.10.1, Mutt contained a vulnerability that could lead to security risks, particularly related to integer underflows in its IMAP functionality.
Vulnerability Detail
An integer underflow vulnerability was discovered in Mutt before version 1.10.1 and NeoMutt before July 16, 2018. This issue arises in the imap_quote_string function located in imap/util.c. The vulnerability could allow attackers to exploit the integer underflow, potentially leading to unauthorized access or manipulation of email data. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 9.8, indicating a critical severity level that necessitates immediate attention.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.10.1-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade muttTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users may consider disabling IMAP functionality until the package can be updated. However, this is not a permanent solution and should only be used to mitigate immediate risks.
Conclusion
The integer underflow vulnerability in Mutt (CVE-2018-14353) poses significant security risks for users of the email client. It is crucial to update to the patched version to safeguard against potential exploits. Regular monitoring and vulnerability management, such as using tools like Vulert, can help maintain application security.
See every vulnerability recorded for mutt →
FAQ
CVE-2018-14353 is a vulnerability identifier for an integer underflow issue found in the Mutt email client, affecting versions prior to 1.10.1.
This vulnerability could allow attackers to exploit email data, potentially leading to unauthorized access or manipulation of sensitive information.
You should update your Mutt package to version 1.10.1-r0 or later as soon as possible to mitigate the risk.
Yes, you can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Vulert monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in software using a manifest file like package-lock.json. It provides real-time alerts for vulnerabilities, helping developers maintain secure applications.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for mutt.
