CWE-1109: Use of Same Variable for Multiple Purposes
The code contains a callable, block, or other code element in which the same variable is used to control more than one unique task or store more than one instance of data.
View on MITREExtended Description
Use of the same variable for multiple purposes can make it more difficult for a person to read or understand the code, potentially hiding other quality issues. This issue makes it more difficult to maintain the product, which indirectly affects security by making it more difficult or time-consuming to find and/or fix vulnerabilities. It also might make it easier to introduce vulnerabilities.
Technical Details
- Structure
- Simple
Applicable To
Security Consequences
Scope
Impact
Mitigation Strategies
No mitigation information available for this CWE.
Detection Methods
No detection method information available for this CWE.
Code Examples & CVEs
No examples or observed CVEs available for this CWE.
CWE Relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CWE-1109: Use of Same Variable for Multiple Purposes?+
CWE-1109: Use of Same Variable for Multiple Purposes is a Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) entry maintained by MITRE. The code contains a callable, block, or other code element in which the same variable is used to control more than one unique task or store more than one instance of data. Use of the same variable for multiple purposes can make it more difficult for a person to read or understand the code, potentially hiding other quality issues. This issue makes it more difficult to maintain the product, which indirectly affects security by making it more difficult or time-consuming to find and/or fix vulnerabilities. It also might make it easier to introduce vulnerabilities.
What are the security consequences of Use of Same Variable for Multiple Purposes?+
If exploited, CWE-1109 (Use of Same Variable for Multiple Purposes) it can compromise Other, leading to outcomes such as Reduce Maintainability.
What is the difference between a CWE and a CVE?+
A CWE (Common Weakness Enumeration) like CWE-1109 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.