CWE-666: Operation on Resource in Wrong Phase of Lifetime
The product performs an operation on a resource at the wrong phase of the resource's lifecycle, which can lead to unexpected behaviors.
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Overview
A resource's lifecycle includes several phases: initialization, use, and release. For each phase, it is important to follow the specifications outlined for how to operate on the resource and to ensure that the resource is in the expected phase. Otherwise, if a resource is in one phase but the operation is not valid for that phase (i.e., an incorrect phase of the resource's lifetime), then this can produce resultant weaknesses. For example, using a resource before it has been fully initialized could cause corruption or incorrect data to be used.
Real-world CVEs
1 recorded CVEs are caused by CWE-666 (Operation on Resource in Wrong Phase of Lifetime). The highest-severity and most recent are shown first. 1 new CWE-666 CVE has been recorded so far in 2026.
Common consequences
What can happen when CWE-666 is exploited.
Other
Affects: Other
How it happens
When it is introduced
Typically introduced during these phases of the software lifecycle.