# Cis Ubuntu1804 V220 2 2 10

> Ensure IMAP and POP3 server are not installed

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-10` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-10`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-10/raw
- Safety review: PASS (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: cyberstrikeus (https://skillmd.com/u/cyberstrikeus)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-10

---


# 2.2.10 Ensure IMAP and POP3 server are not installed (Automated)

## Profile

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation

## Description

`dovecot-imapd` and `dovecot-pop3d` are an open source IMAP and POP3 server for Linux based systems.

## Rationale

Unless POP3 and/or IMAP servers are to be provided by this system, it is recommended that the package be removed to reduce the potential attack surface.

## Audit Procedure

### Command Line

Run the following command to verify `dovecot-imapd` is not installed:

```bash
# dpkg-query -s dovecot-imapd &>/dev/null && echo "dovecot-imapd is installed"
```

Nothing should be returned.

Run the following command to verify `dovecot-pop3d` is not installed:

```bash
# dpkg-query -s dovecot-pop3d &>/dev/null && echo "dovecot-pop3d is installed"
```

Nothing should be returned.

## Expected Result

No output (empty result) for both commands.

## Remediation

### Command Line

Run one of the following commands to remove `dovecot-imapd` and `dovecot-pop3d`:

```bash
# apt purge dovecot-imapd dovecot-pop3d
```

## References

1. NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5: CM-7

Additional Information:

Several IMAP/POP3 servers exist and can use other service names. `courier-imap` and `cyrus-imap` are example services that provide a mail server. These and other services should also be audited.

## CIS Controls

- v8: 4.8 - Uninstall or Disable Unnecessary Services on Enterprise Assets and Software
- v7: 9.2 - Ensure Only Approved Ports, Protocols and Services Are Running