CWE-493: Critical Public Variable Without Final Modifier
The product has a critical public variable that is not final, which allows the variable to be modified to contain unexpected values.
How it's found
Critical Public Variable Without Final Modifier 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.
If a field is non-final and public, it can be changed once the value is set by any function that has access to the class which contains the field. This could lead to a vulnerability if other parts of the program make assumptions about the contents of that field.
Consequences
- Modify Application Data: The object could potentially be tampered with.
- Read Application Data: The object could potentially allow the object to be read.
Mitigations
- Implementation: Declare all public fields as final when possible, especially if it is used to maintain internal state of an Applet or of classes used by an Applet. If a field must be public, then perform all appropriate sanity checks before accessing the field from your code.
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-493?
The product has a critical public variable that is not final, which allows the variable to be modified to contain unexpected values.
How do you find Critical Public Variable Without Final Modifier?
Critical Public Variable Without Final Modifier 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-493?
Modify Application Data: The object could potentially be tampered with. Read Application Data: The object could potentially allow the object to be read.
Does TurboPentest test for Critical Public Variable Without Final Modifier?
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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