The product constructs output for a downstream interpreter using unneutralized external input.
Use parameterized interfaces; treat all external input as data, never as code.
MITRE ATT&CK techniques associated with this weakness class (mapped via MITRE CAPEC). A vulnerability of this type could let an adversary carry out:
A stage-by-stage walkthrough of the attack, mapped to the real MITRE ATT&CK tactics for this weakness — what the attacker is trying to do, what's at risk (what can be stolen or damaged), and how you defend. Understanding the playbook is how you shut it down.
Run attacker-chosen code or commands on the system.
Application logic and the host runtime — an attacker can execute arbitrary code or commands.
Least-privilege runtime, sandboxing, and safe deserialization/parsing.
Stay in even after reboots, patches, or credential changes.
Startup hooks, scheduled tasks, config, and accounts the attacker can plant a backdoor in.
Integrity monitoring of code, config, and scheduled tasks; short-lived credentials.
This is a defensive, conceptual walkthrough for education — stages reflect MITRE ATT&CK tactics associated with this weakness class, not a working exploit. Not every attack uses every stage.