Base · Medium

CWE-475: Undefined Behavior for Input to API

The behavior of this function is undefined unless its control parameter is set to a specific value.

CWE-475 · Base Level

Description

The behavior of this function is undefined unless its control parameter is set to a specific value.

Potential Impact

Other

Quality Degradation, Varies by Context

Detection Methods

  • Automated Static Analysis High — Automated static analysis, commonly referred to as Static Application Security Testing (SAST), can find some instances of this weakness by analyzing source code (or binary/compiled code) without having to execute it. Typically, this is done by building a model of data flow and control flow, then sea

Taxonomy Mappings

  • 7 Pernicious Kingdoms: — Undefined Behavior
  • Software Fault Patterns: SFP1 — Glitch in computation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CWE-475?

CWE-475 (Undefined Behavior for Input to API) is a software weakness identified by MITRE's Common Weakness Enumeration. It is classified as a Base-level weakness. The behavior of this function is undefined unless its control parameter is set to a specific value.

How can CWE-475 be exploited?

Attackers can exploit CWE-475 (Undefined Behavior for Input to API) to quality degradation, varies by context. This weakness is typically introduced during the Architecture and Design, Implementation phase of software development.

How do I prevent CWE-475?

Follow secure coding practices, conduct code reviews, and use automated security testing tools (SAST/DAST) to detect this weakness early in the development lifecycle.

What is the severity of CWE-475?

CWE-475 is classified as a Base-level weakness (Medium abstraction). Its actual severity depends on the specific context and how the weakness manifests in your application.