Torgeek
Is port 143 vulnerable?
Port 143 Details
Numerous IMAP servers have buffer overflows that allow compromise during the login. Note that for awhile, there was a Linux worm (admw0rm) that would spread by compromising port 143, so a lot of scans on this port are actually from innocent people who have already been compromised.
What are ports 143 used for?
Internet Message Access Protocol
Imap protocol is used by eMail clients for the retrieval of their eMail from designated eMail "post office" servers. Email Clients such as Microsoft Outlook, Netscape, Eudora, and many others, using imap protocol to retrieve their eMail, connect to port 143 of a remote eMail server.
Should port 143 be open?
Port 143 is unencrypted IMAP, and I would close it altogether. Port 993 is encrypted IMAP, and you need this open if you want people to be able to receive email without using the VPN.
What is TCP 143?
TCP is one of the main protocols in TCP/IP networks. Whereas the IP protocol deals only with packets, TCP enables two hosts to establish a connection and exchange streams of data. TCP guarantees delivery of data and also guarantees that packets will be delivered on port 143 in the same order in which they were sent.
