HOMEVULNERABILITIESCVE-2008-1801
CRITICALPOC

CVE-2008-1801

CWE-189Published: May 12, 2008· Updated: Jun 16, 2026

9.3
CVSS v3.1

Official Description

Integer underflow in the iso_recv_msg function (iso.c) in rdesktop 1.5.0 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) request with a small length field.

NVD Source

Technical Analysis

CVE-2008-1801 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-2008-1801. While not yet confirmed in active campaigns, the availability of PoC code increases exploitation risk substantially.

CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown

Exploitability
Attack VectorNetwork
Attack ComplexityM
Privileges Req.
User Interaction
Scope
Impact
ConfidentialityC
IntegrityC
AvailabilityC
AV:N/AC:M/Au:N/C:C/I:C/A:C

Affected Vendors & Products

rdesktop1 product(s)
rdesktop
Source: NVD CPE · 1 total CPE entries

Exploit & PoC Resources

POC AVAILABLEProof-of-concept code exists
External links open in a new tab. Always verify in a controlled environment before use.

All References (58)

Quick Facts

CVE IDCVE-2008-1801
CVSS Score9.3 / 10
SeverityCRITICAL
WeaknessCWE-189
CISA KEVNo
ExploitPOC
Affected1 vendor(s)
PublishedMay 12, 2008

Related CVEs (CWE-189)

Recommended Actions

  • Apply vendor patches immediately
  • Monitor CVE-2008-1801 in threat intel feeds
  • Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
Data sourced from NVD (NIST), CISA KEV, and EPSS (FIRST). Analysis generated by CTIWATCH.COM. CVE data is provided under the NVD usage policy.