CWE-1069: Empty Exception Block
An invokable code block contains an exception handling block that does not contain any code, i.e. is empty.
How it's found
Empty Exception Block is a specific, narrowly defined instance of a broader pattern. Testers confirm it with targeted code review and a proof-of-concept input that exercises the exact code path this weakness describes.
Vulnerable vs. safe
c = a / b;int a = 1;int b = 0;int c = 0;try {} catch(ArithmeticException ae) {}
public static void main(String[] args) {}public class Main {}c = a / b;
log.error("Divided by zero detected, setting to -1.");c = -1;int a = 1;int b = 0;int c = 0;try {} catch(ArithmeticException ae) {}
public static void main(String[] args) {}public class Main {}Consequences
- Reduce Reliability: When an exception handling block (such as a Catch and Finally block) is used, but that block is empty, this can prevent the product from running reliably. If the relevant code is reachable by an attacker, then this reliability problem might introduce a vulnerability.
Mitigations
- Implementation: For every exception block add code that handles the specific exception in the way intended by the application.
Where this fits in a TurboPentest engagement
This weakness is not covered by the automated black-box pentest. IntegSec pentesters cover it in a manual engagement.
Frequently asked questions
What is CWE-1069?
An invokable code block contains an exception handling block that does not contain any code, i.e. is empty.
How do you find Empty Exception Block?
Empty Exception Block is a specific, narrowly defined instance of a broader pattern. Testers confirm it with targeted code review and a proof-of-concept input that exercises the exact code path this weakness describes.
What is the impact of CWE-1069?
Reduce Reliability: When an exception handling block (such as a Catch and Finally block) is used, but that block is empty, this can prevent the product from running reliably. If the relevant code is reachable by an attacker, then this reliability problem might introduce a vulnerability.
Does TurboPentest test for Empty Exception Block?
This weakness is not covered by the automated black-box pentest. IntegSec pentesters cover it in a manual engagement.
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Written and reviewed by
Michel Chamberland - Founder & CEO, IntegSec
CISSP, OSCP, OSCE, CEH, GIAC, CCSK · 20+ years in offensive security
Michel has spent 20+ years on offensive security teams including IBM X-Force Red and Trustwave SpiderLabs, leading penetration tests, red team engagements, and breach response for Fortune 500 customers. He is the founder of IntegSec and the architect of TurboPentest.
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