CVE-2016-1208 in FileMaker
Summary
by MITRE
The server in Apple FileMaker before 14.0.4 on OS X allows remote attackers to read PHP source code via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1208 affects Apple FileMaker Server versions prior to 14.0.4 on macOS operating systems, representing a critical information disclosure flaw that enables remote attackers to access PHP source code files. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object reference and improper access control issues as classified by CWE-22 and CWE-285 respectively. The flaw exists within the server component of FileMaker that handles web requests and processes PHP scripts, creating an avenue for unauthorized information retrieval that could expose sensitive application logic and implementation details.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through unspecified vectors that likely involve crafted web requests or specific URL patterns that bypass proper access controls within the FileMaker Server environment. Attackers can leverage this weakness to obtain PHP source code files that contain business logic, database connection details, and potentially sensitive configuration information. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the server's authorization mechanisms, where it fails to properly validate and restrict access to PHP files that should remain protected within the application's secure boundaries. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it provides attackers with insights into the application's internal workings and potential attack surfaces.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the exposure of PHP source code can lead to comprehensive attack surface expansion. When attackers gain access to source code files, they can identify additional vulnerabilities, understand application architecture, and develop more sophisticated attack strategies. The compromised information may include database credentials, hardcoded API keys, and implementation details that could be used to exploit other components within the same system or related applications. This vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and demonstrates poor separation of concerns within the FileMaker Server implementation, as web-accessible PHP files should not be directly exposed to unauthenticated users.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-1208 require immediate deployment of Apple's security patches, specifically upgrading to FileMaker Server 14.0.4 or later versions that address this information disclosure vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to FileMaker Server components and ensure that web-accessible directories are properly secured with appropriate authentication mechanisms. The remediation process should include comprehensive security reviews of all web-accessible files and directories to prevent similar issues in other applications. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for unusual access patterns can help detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with tactics described in the attack pattern taxonomy under initial access and privilege escalation categories, where attackers leverage information disclosure to gain deeper system access. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and access control implementation, as outlined in security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.