Code Injection Weaknesses
Overview
Code injection weaknesses occur when an application accepts untrusted input and incorporates it into executable code without proper validation or sanitization. This allows attackers to inject malicious code that the system executes, leading to unauthorized actions or data compromise.
Why It Matters
- Security impact: Enables attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially gaining control over the affected system.
- Business risk: Can lead to data breaches, service disruptions, and damage to organizational reputation.
- Common consequences: Unauthorized access, data theft, system corruption, and denial of service.
Where It Appears
- Environments: Web applications, databases, and any system processing dynamic code or commands.
- Systems or processes: Input handling routines, scripting engines, and interpreters.
- Typical conditions: Lack of input validation, improper output encoding, and unsafe code execution practices.
How It Is Exploited (High Level)
Attackers supply crafted input that is incorporated into code or commands executed by the system, causing it to perform unintended operations that compromise security.
How It Is Addressed (High Level)
Mitigation involves validating and sanitizing all untrusted input, employing secure coding practices, implementing strict input handling policies, and using separation of code and data to prevent execution of injected code.
Related Topics
SQL injection, command injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), input validation, secure coding, buffer overflow, privilege escalation.