CWE-464: Addition of Data Structure Sentinel
The accidental addition of a data-structure sentinel can cause serious programming logic problems.
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Overview
Data-structure sentinels are often used to mark the structure of data. A common example of this is the null character at the end of strings or a special sentinel to mark the end of a linked list. It is dangerous to allow this type of control data to be easily accessible. Therefore, it is important to protect from the addition or modification of sentinels.
Common consequences
What can happen when CWE-464 is exploited.
Modify Application Data
Affects: Integrity
Generally this error will cause the data structure to not work properly by truncating the data.
How it happens
When it is introduced
Typically introduced during these phases of the software lifecycle.
Applies to
Languages
How to prevent it
Practical mitigations for CWE-464, grouped by where in the lifecycle they apply.