CWE-198: Use of Incorrect Byte Ordering

VariantDraft

The product receives input from an upstream component, but it does not account for byte ordering (e.g. big-endian and little-endian) when processing the input, causing an incorrect number or value to be used.

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Technical Details

Structure
Simple

Applicable To

Languages
Not Language-Specific
Platforms

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CWE-198: Use of Incorrect Byte Ordering?+

CWE-198: Use of Incorrect Byte Ordering is a Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) entry maintained by MITRE. The product receives input from an upstream component, but it does not account for byte ordering (e.g. big-endian and little-endian) when processing the input, causing an incorrect number or value to be used.

What are the security consequences of Use of Incorrect Byte Ordering?+

If exploited, CWE-198 (Use of Incorrect Byte Ordering) it can compromise Integrity, leading to outcomes such as Unexpected State.

How is Use of Incorrect Byte Ordering detected?+

CWE-198 can be detected using Black Box. Combining automated tooling with manual review typically yields the best coverage.

Which programming languages are affected by Use of Incorrect Byte Ordering?+

CWE-198 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-198 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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