CWE-96

Improper Neutralization of Directives in Statically Saved Code ('Static Code Injection')
AI Translation Available

The product receives input from an upstream component, but it does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes code syntax before inserting the input into an executable resource, such as a library, configuration file, or template.

Status
draft
Abstraction
base
Interpreted Perl PHP

Common Consequences

confidentiality access control integrity availability other non-repudiation
Impacts
read files or directories read application data bypass protection mechanism gain privileges or assume identity execute unauthorized code or commands hide activities

Detection Methods

automated static analysis

Potential Mitigations

Phases:
implementation
Descriptions:
• Assume all input is malicious. Use an "accept known good" input validation strategy, i.e., use a list of acceptable inputs that strictly conform to specifications. Reject any input that does not strictly conform to specifications, or transform it into something that does. When performing input validation, consider all potentially relevant properties, including length, type of input, the full range of acceptable values, missing or extra inputs, syntax, consistency across related fields, and conformance to business rules. As an example of business rule logic, "boat" may be syntactically valid because it only contains alphanumeric characters, but it is not valid if the input is only expected to contain colors such as "red" or "blue." Do not rely exclusively on looking for malicious or malformed inputs. This is likely to miss at least one undesirable input, especially if the code's environment changes. This can give attackers enough room to bypass the intended validation. However, denylists can be useful for detecting potential attacks or determining which inputs are so malformed that they should be rejected outright.
• Perform proper output validation and escaping to neutralize all code syntax from data written to code files.