PatchTheCVECVE-2018-20176: rdesktop versions up to and including v1.8.3 contain several Out-Of- Bounds Reads in the file secure.c that re
CVE-2018-20176 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.5) affecting rdesktop. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.
rdesktop versions up to and including v1.8.3 contain several Out-Of- Bounds Reads in the file secure.c that result in a Denial of Service (segfault).
Why this priority
- High severity
- Public exploit reference
- Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action
A fixed release or distro patch exists.
Risk facts
| CVSS score | 7.5 (High) |
| Attack vector | Network (remote) |
| Attack complexity | Low |
| Privileges needed | None |
| User interaction | None |
| EPSS exploit chance | 3.6% (top 11%) |
| CISA exploited list | No |
| Weakness | CWE-125 |
| Published | 2019-03-15 |
| Last modified | 2026-06-17 |
Last updated 2026-06-17 · 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-2018-20176?
rdesktop: upgrade to newer than 1.8.3. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.
Is CVE-2018-20176 being exploited?
CVE-2018-20176 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-2018-20176 affect?
CVE-2018-20176 affects rdesktop. Severity is high (CVSS 7.5). rdesktop versions up to and including v1.8.3 contain several Out-Of- Bounds Reads in the file secure.c that result in a Denial of Service (segfault).
How urgent is CVE-2018-20176?
Priority 59/100. High severity; Public exploit reference; Remotely exploitable, no login, no user action
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