CVE-2012-0679 in Safari
Summary
by MITRE
Apple Safari before 6.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a feed:// URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0679 represents a critical file disclosure flaw in Apple Safari web browser versions prior to 6.0. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of feed:// URLs which are typically used for syndicating content such as RSS and Atom feeds. The flaw allows remote attackers to bypass normal file system access controls and retrieve arbitrary files from the target system. The vulnerability exists in the browser's protocol handling mechanism where feed:// URLs are processed without adequate validation or sanitization of the file paths they reference.
This security issue falls under the category of improper input validation and inadequate access control as defined by CWE-20. The technical implementation flaw occurs when Safari processes feed:// URLs and fails to properly validate the file paths contained within these URLs. Attackers can construct malicious feed:// URLs that point to local files on the target system, potentially allowing access to sensitive files such as configuration data, user credentials, or system information that should remain protected. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the browser's legitimate feed handling functionality to achieve unauthorized file access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure. An attacker could potentially exploit this flaw to gain access to sensitive files that might contain authentication credentials, system configuration details, or personal user data. This represents a significant threat to both individual privacy and enterprise security, as it allows remote attackers to perform reconnaissance activities and gather intelligence about the target system. The vulnerability could be exploited through various attack vectors including phishing emails, compromised websites, or malicious advertisements that contain crafted feed:// URLs. The risk is amplified by the fact that feed:// URLs are commonly used and trusted by users, making social engineering attacks more effective.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0679 should focus on immediate browser updates to version 6.0 or later where Apple has implemented proper validation of feed:// URLs. Organizations should also implement network-level controls such as web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious feed:// URL patterns. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of clicking on untrusted feed links and implementing strict access controls on sensitive files can help reduce the overall risk. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique T1059.007 for remote command execution through web browsers and T1566 for social engineering attacks using malicious feeds. The vulnerability also aligns with the broader category of privilege escalation attacks where attackers attempt to gain unauthorized access to system resources through legitimate application functionality. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should include verification that feed:// URL handling is properly secured in all browser versions deployed within the organization.