ABSTRACT

The use of deprecated or obsolete functions could indicate neglected code.

EXPLANATION

As programming languages evolve, methods occasionally become obsolete due to:

- Advances in the language

- Improved understanding of how operations should perform effectively and
securely

- Changes in the conventions that govern certain operations

Methods that are removed from a language are usually replaced by newer counterparts that perform the same task in some different and hopefully better way.


Not all functions are deprecated or replaced because they pose a security risk. However, the presence of an obsolete function often indicates that the surrounding code has been neglected and may be in a state of disrepair. Software security has not been a priority, or even a consideration, for very long. If the program uses deprecated or obsolete functions, it raises the probability that there are security problems lurking nearby.

REFERENCES

[1] Standards Mapping - Common Weakness Enumeration - (CWE) CWE ID 477