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When it is executed, if expression (which must have a scalar type) is false, the assert macro outputs information about the failed assertion (including the text of the argument, the name of the source file, the source line number, and the name of the enclosing function) on the standard error stream, in an implementation-defined format, and calls the abort() function.
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In particular, assertions are generally unsuitable for server programs or embedded systems in deployment. A failed assertion can lead to a denial-of-service attack if triggered by a malicious user, such as size being derived, in some way, derived from client input. In such situations, a soft failure mode, such as writing to a log file and rejecting the request, is more appropriate.
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This noncompliant code example uses the assert() macro to verify that memory allocation succeeded. Because memory availability depends on the overall state of the system and can become exhausted at any point during a process lifetime, a robust program must be prepared to gracefully handle and recover from its exhaustion. ThereforeConsequently, using the assert() macro to verify that a memory allocation succeeded would be inappropriate because doing so might lead to an abrupt termination of the process, opening up the possibility of a denial-of-service attack. See also MEM11-C. Do not assume infinite heap space and MEM32-C. Detect and handle memory allocation errors.
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Tool | Version | Checker | Description | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASSERT_SIDE_EFFECT | Can detect the specific instance where assertion contains an operation/function call that may have a side effect. |
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Search for vulnerabilities resulting from the violation of this rule on the CERT website.
Related Guidelines
| CERT C Secure Coding Standard | ERR00-C. Adopt and implement a consistent and comprehensive error-handling policy |
| CERT C++ Secure Coding Standard |
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ISO/IEC 9899:2011 Section 7.2.1, "Program diagnostics"
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| , Reachable assertion |
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