CVE-2014-1279 in Apple
Summary
by MITRE
Apple TV before 6.1 does not properly restrict logging, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information by reading log data.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1279 affects Apple TV devices running software versions prior to 6.1, representing a significant security flaw in the device's logging mechanisms. This issue stems from inadequate restrictions on log file access and content handling, creating an avenue for local attackers to extract sensitive information from the system. The vulnerability exists within the device's operating system architecture where logging functions are improperly configured to allow unrestricted access to potentially sensitive data that should remain protected.
This technical flaw manifests as a failure to properly implement access controls and data sanitization within the Apple TV's logging subsystem. The device generates log files containing various types of information including user activities, system events, and potentially authentication-related data. Due to insufficient restrictions, local users can access these log files directly and extract information that may include user credentials, session data, or other confidential system information. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses improper exposure of sensitive information, and represents a classic case of insufficient logging security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the sensitive data accessible through log files could enable further attacks or compromise the device's security posture. Local attackers who can read these logs may gain insights into user behavior patterns, system configurations, or authentication mechanisms that could facilitate more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability also affects the device's overall security model by creating an unexpected data leakage channel that undermines the principle of least privilege. This issue directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers discovery of system information, as attackers can use the log files to gather intelligence about the target system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-1279 should focus on implementing proper access controls for log files and ensuring that sensitive information is either filtered out during log generation or protected through appropriate file permissions. Apple addressed this vulnerability by releasing Apple TV software version 6.1, which included enhanced logging restrictions and improved access controls. Organizations should ensure their Apple TV devices are updated to the latest firmware versions and implement monitoring of log file access patterns to detect potential unauthorized access attempts. Additionally, system administrators should review and configure logging settings to minimize the amount of sensitive information stored in accessible log files, following security best practices for log management and data protection.