CWE-244 (在释放前清理堆内存不恰当(堆检查)) — Vulnerability Class 15

CWE-244 represents a memory management weakness where sensitive data, such as passwords or encryption keys, remains exposed in heap memory after being resized or released. This vulnerability typically arises when developers use functions like realloc() without explicitly clearing the original memory buffer, leaving residual data accessible to attackers. Malicious actors exploit this by performing heap inspection attacks, utilizing memory dumps or core dumps to retrieve the lingering sensitive information. To mitigate this risk, developers must ensure that all sensitive data is securely wiped from memory before any allocation is freed or resized. Implementing explicit zeroing routines, such as memset_s, or using secure memory allocation libraries that automatically clear buffers upon release are effective strategies. By rigorously managing memory lifecycle and ensuring no residual traces remain, organizations can prevent unauthorized access to critical secrets stored in volatile memory.