CWE-1069: Empty Exception Block

VariantIncomplete

An invokable code block contains an exception handling block that does not contain any code, i.e. is empty.

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Extended Description

When an exception handling block (such as a Catch and Finally block) is used, but that block is empty, this can prevent the product from running reliably. If the relevant code is reachable by an attacker, then this reliability problem might introduce a vulnerability.

Technical Details

Structure
Simple

Applicable To

Languages
Not Language-Specific
Platforms

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CWE-1069: Empty Exception Block?+

CWE-1069: Empty Exception Block is a Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) entry maintained by MITRE. An invokable code block contains an exception handling block that does not contain any code, i.e. is empty. When an exception handling block (such as a Catch and Finally block) is used, but that block is empty, this can prevent the product from running reliably. If the relevant code is reachable by an attacker, then this reliability problem might introduce a vulnerability.

What are the security consequences of Empty Exception Block?+

If exploited, CWE-1069 (Empty Exception Block) it can compromise Other, leading to outcomes such as Reduce Reliability.

How do you prevent or mitigate Empty Exception Block?+

Recommended mitigations for CWE-1069 include: For every exception block add code that handles the specific exception in the way intended by the application.

Which programming languages are affected by Empty Exception Block?+

CWE-1069 commonly affects Not Language-Specific. Note that weaknesses are often language-agnostic patterns, so secure coding practices apply broadly.

What is the difference between a CWE and a CVE?+

A CWE (Common Weakness Enumeration) like CWE-1069 describes a category of software weakness — the underlying flaw type. A CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) identifies a specific, real-world vulnerability in a particular product. In short, a CWE is the kind of mistake, and a CVE is an instance of that mistake being found in software.

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