[Fair use for education and research purpose only]

Title: Filemaker Hit with Web Software Bug

By Ian Fried Staff Writer, CNET News.com May 2, 2000, 5:35 p.m. PT

Software publisher Filemaker confirmed today that there is a bug in one of its programs that potentially allows unauthorized access to databases posted to the Internet.

A spokesman said the company plans to fix the problem and have a download available within a week.

The Santa Clara, Calif.-based company said in a statement that a security feature in its Web Companion software, which allows users to post Filemaker databases on the Web, "may not be reliable." Because of the glitch, users could potentially view data in a Web Companion database even if the security settings are programmed to deny access.

Filemaker is the flagship product of the Apple Computer subsidiary. With Web Companion, Filemaker can be incorporated into a Web site. However, the programs are supposed to allow individuals to limit access to various parts of the database when used in conjunction.

Filemaker suggests users posting databases via Web Companion can employ other security means, such as using passwords or limiting user access to particular functions, until the issue is resolved.

Spokesman Steve Ruddock said the company has not heard of any actual security breaches.

"As far as we know, there have been zero real world incidents," Ruddock said.

Ruddock said the company has identified the problem and is working on a solution.

"We think it will be a quick fix," Ruddock said.

The company first learned of the problem yesterday, after Web software developer Blue World Communications issued a press release about the problem.

http://www.news.com/news/0-1003-200-1803773.html?tag=st.ne.1003.thed.1003-200-1803773

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-- (Dee360Degree@aol.com), May 03, 2000