CWE-395: Use of NullPointerException Catch to Detect NULL Pointer Dereference
Catching NullPointerException should not be used as an alternative to programmatic checks to prevent dereferencing a null pointer.
How it's found
Use of NullPointerException Catch to Detect NULL Pointer Dereference is typically found by tracing untrusted input from where it enters the system to the point where it is used without the check or neutralization this weakness describes, combining manual code review with dynamic testing.
Programmers typically catch NullPointerException under three circumstances: Of these three circumstances, only the last is acceptable.The program contains a null pointer dereference. Catching the resulting exception was easier than fixing the underlying problem. The program explicitly throws a NullPointerException to signal an error condition. The code is part of a test harness that supplies unexpected input to the classes under test.
Consequences
- DoS: Resource Consumption (CPU)
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design/Implementation: Do not extensively rely on catching exceptions (especially for validating user input) to handle errors. Handling exceptions can decrease the performance of an 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-395?
Catching NullPointerException should not be used as an alternative to programmatic checks to prevent dereferencing a null pointer.
How do you find Use of NullPointerException Catch to Detect NULL Pointer Dereference?
Use of NullPointerException Catch to Detect NULL Pointer Dereference is typically found by tracing untrusted input from where it enters the system to the point where it is used without the check or neutralization this weakness describes, combining manual code review with dynamic testing.
What is the impact of CWE-395?
DoS: Resource Consumption (CPU)
Does TurboPentest test for Use of NullPointerException Catch to Detect NULL Pointer Dereference?
This weakness is not covered by the automated black-box pentest. IntegSec pentesters cover it in a manual engagement.
Related CWEs
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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