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Stuttgart fights against software errors: This is how Cristian Cadar protects us!
In Stuttgart, Cristian Cadar tests innovative solutions to minimize software errors and security gaps. Find out more about current developments and challenges in software security.
Stuttgart fights against software errors: This is how Cristian Cadar protects us!
As the complexity of modern computer programs continues to increase, the susceptibility of these systems to errors also increases. Cristian Cadar, a leading scientist at the University of Stuttgart, has set himself the goal of developing innovative approaches to further minimize this susceptibility to errors. Cadar points out that even simple applications can consist of thousands to millions of lines of code, which significantly increases the likelihood of programming errors, also known as “bugs.” These errors can not only cause malfunctions, but can also create serious security holes that allow criminals to break into computer systems.
A well-known example of such a vulnerability is the Heartbleed bug, which appeared in the OpenSSL encryption library in 2014. This library plays a crucial role in secure Internet communication. A bug in an update allowed hackers to access passwords and private data from millions of users. The Heartbleed bug is an impressive example of how quickly software errors can develop into massive security crises CSO Online reports.
The most dangerous software errors
The relevance of software bugs is highlighted by the regularly updated list of the 25 most dangerous software bugs, known as the CWE Top 25. This list is provided by the MITER Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) and is based on concrete practical data to realistically assess the threat potential. In contrast to Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE), CWE provides a taxonomy of security vulnerabilities, while CVE lists specific vulnerabilities.
The most recent update to this list occurred in late 2019 and is based on approximately 25,000 highly rated CVE entries from 2017 and 2018. CWE-119, which addresses “Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer,” has the highest score of 75.56 and includes common memory-related programming errors. In contrast, CWE-89, the “SQL Injection,” fell from #1 in 2011 to #6 in 2019, but remains highly relevant.
The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic has further increased the discussion about software errors and their effects. In times of increased remote access and VPN use, understanding and troubleshooting these errors is critical. The CWE Top 25 list provides professionals with an objective basis for identifying and prioritizing software security issues. Consideration is also being given to developing tailored CWE rankings for specific organizations to better meet individual needs.
The ongoing efforts of Cadar and his team at the University of Stuttgart are a step in the right direction to find innovative solutions to minimize programming errors and security vulnerabilities. In a world in which technical systems are becoming increasingly complex, the challenge of maintaining security standards and maintaining user trust remains a top priority, both in the private and professional sectors. More information about the most dangerous software errors can be found on Security Insiders be read.