CWE-393Return of Wrong Status Code

PUBLISHEDweakness record
released 2006-07-19 · last modified 2025-12-11

Metadata

CWE ID:
CWE-393
Abstraction:
Base
Structure:
Simple
Status:
Draft
Release Date:
2006-07-19
Latest Modification Date:
2025-12-11

Weakness Name

Return of Wrong Status Code

Description

A function or operation returns an incorrect return value or status code that does not indicate the true result of execution, causing the product to modify its behavior based on the incorrect result.

This can lead to unpredictable behavior. If the function is used to make security-critical decisions or provide security-critical information, then the wrong status code can cause the product to assume that an action is safe or correct, even when it is not.

Common Consequences

Scope:
Integrity, Other
Impact:
Unexpected State, Alter Execution Logic
Notes:
This weakness could place the system in a state that could lead unexpected logic to be executed or other unintended behaviors.

Related Weaknesses