Improper input validation

Improper input validation[1] or unchecked user input is a type of vulnerability in computer software that may be used for security exploits.[2] This vulnerability is caused when "[t]he product does not validate or incorrectly validates input that can affect the control flow or data flow of a program."[1]

Examples include:

• Buffer overflow
• Cross-site scripting
• Directory traversal
• Null byte injection
• SQL injection
• Uncontrolled format string

References

1. "CWE-20: Improper Input Validation". Common Weakness Enumeration. MITRE. December 13, 2010. Retrieved February 22, 2011.
2. Erickson, Jon (2008). Hacking: the art of exploitation. No Starch Press Series (2, illustrated ed.). Safari Books Online. ISBN 978-1-59327-144-2.