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CWE-134 - Use of Externally-Controlled Format String

CWE-134 High

  • Abstraction:
  • Base
  • Structure:
  • Simple
  • Status:
  • Draft
Weakness Name

Use of Externally-Controlled Format String

Description

The product uses a function that accepts a format string as an argument, but the format string originates from an external source.

When an attacker can modify an externally-controlled format string, this can lead to buffer overflows, denial of service, or data representation problems. It should be noted that in some circumstances, such as internationalization, the set of format strings is externally controlled by design. If the source of these format strings is trusted (e.g. only contained in library files that are only modifiable by the system administrator), then the external control might not itself pose a vulnerability.

Common Consequences

Scope: Confidentiality

Impact: Read Memory

Notes: Format string problems allow for information disclosure which can severely simplify exploitation of the program.

Scope: Integrity, Confidentiality, Availability

Impact: Modify Memory, Execute Unauthorized Code or Commands

Notes: Format string problems can result in the execution of arbitrary code.

Related Weaknesses
Related Alerts
  • Release Date:
  • 2006-07-19
  • Latest Modification Date:
  • 2023-06-29

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