CVE-2006-5478

CVE-2006-5478 is a high-severity vulnerability in Novell Edirectory with a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.5. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score of 84% places it in the 100th percentile, indicating an elevated likelihood of exploitation. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-119.

Key facts

Description

Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in Novell eDirectory 8.8.x before 8.8.1 FTF1, and 8.x up to 8.7.3.8, and Novell NetMail before 3.52e FTF2, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) a long HTTP Host header, which triggers an overflow in the BuildRedirectURL function; or vectors related to a username containing a . (dot) character in the (2) SMTP, (3) POP, (4) IMAP, (5) HTTP, or (6) Networked Messaging Application Protocol (NMAP) Netmail services.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2006-5478?
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in Novell eDirectory 8.8.x before 8.8.1 FTF1, and 8.x up to 8.7.3.8, and Novell NetMail before 3.52e FTF2, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) a long HTTP Host header, which triggers an overflow in the BuildRedirectURL function; or vectors related to a username containing a . (dot) character in the (2) SMTP, (3) POP, (4) IMAP, (5) HTTP, or (6) Networked Messaging Application Protocol (NMAP) Netmail services.
How severe is CVE-2006-5478?
CVE-2006-5478 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.5, rated high severity.
Is CVE-2006-5478 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 84% (100th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2006-5478?
CVE-2006-5478 primarily affects Novell Edirectory. In total, 10 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2006-5478?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-2006-5478 published?
CVE-2006-5478 was published on 2006-10-24 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (10)

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