CVE-2012-0680 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
Apple Safari before 6.0 does not properly handle the autocomplete attribute of a password input element, which allows remote attackers to bypass authentication by leveraging an unattended workstation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0680 represents a critical security flaw in Apple Safari browsers prior to version 6.0, specifically concerning the improper handling of the autocomplete attribute for password input elements. This issue stems from Safari's failure to correctly process the autocomplete="off" directive when applied to password fields, creating a significant authentication bypass opportunity that can be exploited in unattended workstation scenarios. The flaw manifests when users access web applications that employ password fields with the autocomplete attribute set to "off" but fail to properly prevent the browser from storing or auto-filling these credentials.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in Safari's inconsistent implementation of web standards regarding password field handling and browser autocomplete functionality. When a web application sets the autocomplete attribute to "off" on password input elements, the browser should respect this directive and refrain from storing or suggesting previously entered passwords. However, Safari's implementation was flawed, allowing the browser to still store password credentials even when explicitly instructed not to, thereby undermining the intended security controls. This behavior creates a persistent credential storage mechanism that can be exploited by attackers who gain physical access to unattended systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-0680 extends beyond simple credential theft, as it enables attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms on unattended workstations where users have previously logged into web applications. When users leave their computers unlocked and unattended, the stored password credentials can be automatically filled into login forms, effectively allowing unauthorized access to protected applications and systems. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where employees frequently use shared or public computers, as it can be exploited to gain access to sensitive corporate resources without requiring additional authentication factors.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses information exposure, and CWE-312, which deals with cleartext storage of sensitive information. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1562.001, which involves disabling or modifying system security tools, as the improper handling of autocomplete attributes essentially disables the intended security controls for password management. The vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor browser implementation issues can create significant security risks, particularly in environments where physical security controls are insufficient.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0680 require both browser-level and application-level approaches. Users should upgrade to Safari version 6.0 or later, where Apple addressed the autocomplete handling issue through improved compliance with web standards. Organizations should implement additional security measures such as requiring multi-factor authentication for sensitive applications, implementing automatic screen lock policies, and conducting regular security awareness training. Application developers should avoid relying solely on the autocomplete="off" attribute for security purposes and instead implement additional authentication mechanisms. Network administrators should monitor for exploitation attempts and consider implementing endpoint security solutions that can detect and prevent credential theft attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper web standard compliance in security-sensitive applications and the need for comprehensive security testing across all browser platforms.