PatchTheCVECVE-2008-2357: Stack-based buffer overflow in the split_redraw function in split.c in mtr before 0.73, when invoked with the
CVE-2008-2357 is a medium-severity flaw (CVSS 6.8) affecting mtr. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
Stack-based buffer overflow in the split_redraw function in split.c in mtr before 0.73, when invoked with the -p (aka --split) option, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted DNS PTR record. NOTE: it could be argued that this is a vulnerability in the ns_name_ntop function in resolv/ns_name.c in glibc and the proper fix should be in glibc; if so, then this should not be treated as a vulnerability in mtr.
Why this priority
- EPSS top 8%: very likely to be exploited
- Public exploit reference
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 6.8 (Medium) |
| EPSS exploit chance | 4.7% (top 8%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-119 |
| Published | 2008-05-21 |
| Last modified | 2026-06-16 |
Last updated 2026-06-16 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score
Am I affected?
Timeline
- Published CVE record published
- Updated Record last modified
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.
Quick answers
How do I fix CVE-2008-2357?
mtr: upgrade to newer than 0.72. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2008-2357 being exploited?
CVE-2008-2357 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.
What does CVE-2008-2357 affect?
CVE-2008-2357 affects mtr. Severity is medium (CVSS 6.8). Stack-based buffer overflow in the split_redraw function in split.c in mtr before 0.73, when invoked with the -p (aka --split) option, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted DNS PTR record. NOTE: it could be argued
How urgent is CVE-2008-2357?
Priority 52/100. EPSS top 8%: very likely to be exploited; Public exploit reference
Software pages
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