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CVE-2019-15846 is a heap-based buffer overflow in Exim affecting versions up to and including 4.92.1. The flaw is in string_interpret_escape() when invoked by string_unprinting(), where improper handling of a trailing backslash can cause the output processing logic to advance incorrectly and write past the end of a heap-allocated buffer. The issue is reachable through TLS-related input handling, including parsing of SNI and peer certificate distinguished name data, and has been described as remotely exploitable during the initial TLS handshake on servers that accept TLS connections. Successful exploitation can allow a local or remote unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code as root.
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1 valid exploit after Mallory filtered fakes, detection scripts, and README-only repos.
This repository provides a proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit for CVE-2019-15846, a heap overflow vulnerability in Exim (notably version 4.92). The main component is 'exgen.py', a Python script that generates specially crafted Exim spool files designed to trigger the vulnerability. The repository includes two example spool files ('1i7Jgy-0002dD-Pb-D' and '1i7Jgy-0002dD-Pb-H') that demonstrate the exploit technique. The README explains the purpose and references a blog post for further details. The exploit is not weaponized; it is a PoC that demonstrates how to create malicious spool files for local exploitation or for scenarios where an attacker can influence Exim's spool directory. No network endpoints or remote attack vectors are present; the attack is primarily local, targeting the Exim mail server's file processing logic.
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7 sources tracked across advisories, community write-ups, and news. New activity surfaces here as Mallory finds it.
A critical remote code execution vulnerability in the Exim mail server that can allow remote or local attackers to execute programs with root privileges on vulnerable systems.
An Exim heap-based overflow in string_interpret_escape/string_unprinting affecting versions up to 4.92.1, exploitable via crafted input such as an SNI with a trailing backslash.
An Exim vulnerability enabling local or unauthenticated remote attackers to execute programs with root privileges on Exim servers that accept TLS connections.
A vulnerability affecting Exim 4.92.1 and all earlier versions, with vendor-provided mitigation guidance and references to the vendor advisory.
Query your assets running an affected version, and investigate the blast radius.
Every observed campaign linking this CVE to a named adversary.
Malware families riding this exploit, with evidence and IOCs.
YARA, Sigma, Snort, and vendor rules, auto-deployed to your SIEM.
Cross-references every affected SKU, including bundled OEM variants.
Community discussion across Reddit, Mastodon, and other social sources.