CVE-2020-28896

What it is

Mutt before 2.0.2 and NeoMutt before 2020-11-20 did not ensure that $ssl_force_tls was processed if an IMAP server's initial server response was invalid. The connection was not properly closed, and the code could continue attempting to authenticate. This could result in authentication credentials being exposed on an unencrypted connection, or to a machine-in-the-middle.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network without logging in, but needs a user to act. High risk of data exposure.

Exploit odds

2.4% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2020-11-23 19:15 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 03:10 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 2.4% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 5.3 MEDIUM (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2020-11-23 19:15 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 03:10 UTC

Exploit probability

2.4% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-287 · Improper authentication

Record status

Modified

Affected

• Mutt < 2.0.2
• Neomutt < 2020-11-20
• Debian Linux 9.0

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 5.3

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

High

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

Required

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

None

Availability

None

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2020-28896.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2020-28896. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

Copy as ticket · More options · Status badge