CWE-733: Compiler Optimization Removal or Modification of Security-critical Code

low-risk

The developer builds a security-critical protection mechanism into the software, but the compiler optimizes the program such that the mechanism is removed or modified.

Abstraction: Base

Common Consequences

Access Control Bypass Protection Mechanism

Detection Methods

Black Box

This specific weakness is impossible to detect using black box methods. While an analyst could examine memory to see that it has not been scrubbed, an analysis of the executable would not be successful. This is because the compiler has already removed the relevant code. Only the source code shows whether the programmer intended to clear the memory or not, so this weakness is indistinguishable from others.

White Box

This weakness is only detectable using white box methods (see black box detection factor). Careful analysis is required to determine if the code is likely to be removed by the compiler.

Real-World Examples (5)

CVE CVSS EPSS KEV
CVE-2020-15294 7.8 0.1%
CVE-2025-13024 9.8 0.1%
CVE-2025-20241 7.4 0.0%
CVE-2025-52496 7.8 0.0%
CVE-2024-58262 2.9 0.0%
0
/ 100
low-risk
Active Threat 0/50 · Minimal
Exploit Availability 0/50 · Minimal