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CWE-478: Missing Default Case in Multiple Condition Expression
Weakness ID : 478
Structure : Simple
Abstraction : Base
Description
The code does not have a default case in an expression with multiple conditions, such as a switch
statement.
Extended Description
If a multiple-condition expression (such as a switch in C) omits the default case but does not
consider or handle all possible values that could occur, then this might lead to complex logical
errors and resultant weaknesses. Because of this, further decisions are made based on poor
information, and cascading failure results. This cascading failure may result in any number of
security issues, and constitutes a significant failure in the system.
Relationships
The table(s) below shows the weaknesses and high level categories that are related to this
weakness. These relationships are defined as ChildOf, ParentOf, MemberOr and give insight to
similar items that may exist at higher and lower levels of abstraction. In addition, relationships such
as PeerOf and CanAlsoBe are defined to show similar weaknesses that may want to be explored.
Relevant to the view "Research Concepts" (CWE-1000)
Nature Type ID Name Page
ChildOf 1023 Incomplete Comparison with Missing Factors 1865
Relevant to the view "Software Development" (CWE-699)
Nature Type ID Name Page
MemberOf 1006 Bad Coding Practices 2422
Weakness Ordinalities
Primary :
Applicable Platforms
Language : C (Prevalence = Undetermined)
Language : C++ (Prevalence = Undetermined)
Language : Java (Prevalence = Undetermined)
Language : C# (Prevalence = Undetermined)
Language : Python (Prevalence = Undetermined)
Language : JavaScript (Prevalence = Undetermined)
Common Consequences
Scope Impact Likelihood
Integrity Varies by Context
Alter Execution Logic
Depending on the logical circumstances involved, any
consequences may result: e.g., issues of confidentiality,
authentication, authorization, availability, integrity,
accountability, or non-repudiation.
CWE Version 4.14
CWE-478: Missing Default Case in Multiple Condition Expression
CWE-478: Missing Default Case in Multiple Condition Expression