CWE-588: Attempt to Access Child of a Non-structure Pointer
Casting a non-structure type to a structure type and accessing a field can lead to memory access errors or data corruption.
How it's found
Attempt to Access Child of a Non-structure Pointer 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.
Consequences
- Modify Memory: Adjacent variables in memory may be corrupted by assignments performed on fields after the cast.
- DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart: Execution may end due to a memory access error.
Mitigations
- Requirements: The choice could be made to use a language that is not susceptible to these issues.
- Implementation: Review of type casting operations can identify locations where incompatible types are cast.
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-588?
Casting a non-structure type to a structure type and accessing a field can lead to memory access errors or data corruption.
How do you find Attempt to Access Child of a Non-structure Pointer?
Attempt to Access Child of a Non-structure Pointer 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-588?
Modify Memory: Adjacent variables in memory may be corrupted by assignments performed on fields after the cast. DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart: Execution may end due to a memory access error.
Does TurboPentest test for Attempt to Access Child of a Non-structure Pointer?
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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