CWE-471
Modification of Assumed-Immutable Data (MAID)
Description
The product does not properly protect an assumed-immutable element from being modified by an attacker.
This occurs when a particular input is critical enough to the functioning of the application that it should not be modifiable at all, but it is. Certain resources are often assumed to be immutable when they are not, such as hidden form fields in web applications, cookies, and reverse DNS lookups.
Parent Weaknesses (ChildOf)
Common Consequences
Scope
Impact
Modify Application Data
Scope
Impact
Unexpected State
Potential Mitigations
When the data is stored or transmitted through untrusted sources that could modify the data, implement integrity checks to detect unauthorized modification, or store/transmit the data in a trusted location that is free from external influence.
CVE-2002-1757Relies on $PHP_SELF variable for authentication.
CVE-2005-1905Gain privileges by modifying assumed-immutable code addresses that are accessed by a driver.
Applicable Platforms
Security Training
Train your team to recognize and prevent security threats with our comprehensive security awareness program.
Start TrainingVulnerability Scanning
Discover vulnerabilities in your applications and infrastructure before attackers do.
Scan Now