MITRE, a non-profit organization that focuses on improving cybersecurity, has recently released a list of the top 25 most dangerous software weaknesses. These weaknesses, which have impacted software over the past two years, can be exploited by attackers to gain control of vulnerable systems, steal data, or disrupt the functioning of certain programs.
Software defects come in various forms, including holes, bugs, weaknesses, and mistakes in the architecture, implementation, code, or design of software solutions. These flaws make software susceptible to attacks and pose a serious risk to organizations and individuals.
The list was compiled by MITRE by evaluating 43,996 vulnerabilities reported in the CVE database over the years 2021 and 2022. The vulnerabilities were then given a score based on their severity and prevalence. The scoring formula considered both the frequency with which a weakness is the primary cause of a vulnerability and the average severity of each vulnerability when exploited.
The top 25 software weaknesses identified by MITRE include “Out-of-bounds Write,” “Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation (‘Cross-site Scripting’),” and “Improper Neutralization of Special Elements Used in an SQL Command (‘SQL Injection’).” These weaknesses can be easily exploited by attackers and can lead to serious consequences if not addressed.
CISA, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, has issued a warning about the vulnerabilities identified in the list. They advise developers and product security response teams to review the CWE Top 25 and evaluate the recommended mitigations to determine which ones are most appropriate for adoption. By addressing these weaknesses and implementing the suggested mitigations, organizations can significantly improve their cybersecurity posture.
In addition to the CWE Top 25, CISA, the FBI, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), and the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) have also released a list of often exploited issues in 2020. This list is meant to raise awareness among organizations about the common vulnerabilities that attackers target.
Furthermore, MITRE has also provided a list of the top 10 most often exploited security issues from 2016 to 2019, as identified by CISA and the FBI. This list serves as a reminder that certain vulnerabilities remain prevalent over time and should be prioritized when it comes to implementing security measures.
It is crucial for organizations to consider these lists and take proactive measures to address the vulnerabilities identified. By staying informed about the latest software weaknesses and implementing the necessary mitigations, companies can protect their systems and data from potential attacks. Regular vulnerability management and a proactive approach to cybersecurity are essential in today’s threat landscape.
In the coming weeks, the CWE program will be publishing further articles on the CWE Top 25 methodology, vulnerability mapping trends, and other useful information to help organizations better understand the importance of vulnerability management in reducing cybersecurity risk. By sharing this knowledge, MITRE aims to shift the balance of cybersecurity risk and empower organizations to better protect themselves against potential threats.
In conclusion, the release of the top 25 most dangerous software weaknesses by MITRE serves as a wake-up call for organizations to prioritize cybersecurity. These vulnerabilities can have severe consequences if left unaddressed. By taking proactive measures and implementing the recommended mitigations, organizations can significantly reduce their risk exposure and protect themselves from potential attacks.