CWE-317: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI
The product stores sensitive information in cleartext within the GUI.
View on MITREExtended Description
An attacker can often obtain data from a GUI, even if hidden, by using an API to directly access GUI objects such as windows and menus. Even if the information is encoded in a way that is not human-readable, certain techniques could determine which encoding is being used, then decode the information.
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
Observed CVE Examples (1)
Unencrypted passwords stored in GUI dialog may allow local users to access the passwords.
View DetailsCWE Relationships
No relationship information available for this CWE.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CWE-317: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI?+
CWE-317: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI is a Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) entry maintained by MITRE. The product stores sensitive information in cleartext within the GUI. An attacker can often obtain data from a GUI, even if hidden, by using an API to directly access GUI objects such as windows and menus. Even if the information is encoded in a way that is not human-readable, certain techniques could determine which encoding is being used, then decode the information.
What are the security consequences of Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI?+
If exploited, CWE-317 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI) it can compromise Confidentiality, leading to outcomes such as Read Memory and Read Application Data.
Which programming languages are affected by Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI?+
CWE-317 commonly affects Not Language-Specific. Note that weaknesses are often language-agnostic patterns, so secure coding practices apply broadly.
What are real-world examples of Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI?+
MITRE documents real CVEs mapped to CWE-317, including CVE-2002-1848. You can look up the full details of each CVE, including CVSS scores and remediation guidance, on our CVE Lookup tool.
What is the difference between a CWE and a CVE?+
A CWE (Common Weakness Enumeration) like CWE-317 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.