CVE-2003-1177
NVD-CWE-OtherPublished: December 31, 2003· Updated: Jun 16, 2026
Official Description
Buffer overflow in the base64 decoder in MERCUR Mailserver 4.2 before SP3a allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service and possibly execute arbitrary code via a long (1) AUTH command to the POP3 server or (2) AUTHENTICATE command to the IMAP server.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2003-1177 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
A proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit exists for CVE-2003-1177. While not yet confirmed in active campaigns, the availability of PoC code increases exploitation risk substantially.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (16)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (NVD-CWE-Other)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2003-1177 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts