Skip to main content

Inappropriate coding practices - Performance

Description​

Within the code there are unsafe statements using a lot of machine resources, which affects the performance and response time of the application. Early Java API classes, such as Vector, Hashtable and StringBuffer, were synchronized to make them thread-safe. Unfortunately, synchronization has a major negative impact on performance, even when using these collections from a single thread.

Impact​

Make requests to the system that may affect process performance and response times, since the system does not make use of the most optimal components and libraries.

Recommendation​

Use the libraries that allow to execute the functions of concatenation and storage in collections in an optimized way (ArrayList and StringBuilder or SyncronizedList).

Threat​

Anonymous user with access to the application.

Expected Remediation Time​

⌚ 30 minutes.

Score​

Default score using CVSS 3.1. It may change depending on the context of the vulnerability.

Base​

  • Attack vector: N
  • Attack complexity: H
  • Privileges required: L
  • User interaction: N
  • Scope: U
  • Confidentiality: N
  • Integrity: N
  • Availability: L

Temporal​

  • Exploit code madurity: P
  • Remediation level: O
  • Report confidence: X

Result​

  • Vector string: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:L/E:P/RL:O/RC:X
  • Score:
    • Base: 3.1
    • Temporal: 2.8
  • Severity:
    • Base: Low
    • Temporal: Low

Code Examples​

Compliant code​

The application uses efficient methods to prevent consuming extra resources in the machine

class Main {
  public static void main(User user) {
    private userPost = new Post(user.newPost);
    user.posts.append(userPost);
  }
}

Non compliant code​

The application uses an ineficcient method to store user posts that could consume many computer resources

class Main {
  public static void main(User user) {
    StringBuffer str = new StringBuffer(user.posts);
    str.append(user.newPost);
  }
}

Requirements​

free trial

Search for vulnerabilities in your apps for free with our automated security testing! Start your 21-day free trial and discover the benefits of our Continuous Hacking Machine Plan. If you prefer a full service that includes the expertise of our ethical hackers, don't hesitate to contact us for our Continuous Hacking Squad Plan.