Forever day bug definition
A forever day bug is a software vulnerability that the manufacturer isn’t intending to patch. With forever day bugs, instead of patching them, users are typically told how to avoid the threat. Unlike zero-day vulnerabilities, which cybercriminals actively exploit before they’re patched, forever day bugs remain without being addressed by the software developers or security community. Letting these vulnerabilities linger indefinitely isn’t the ideal solution, and can pose a significant threat.
See also: vulnerability assessment
Why are forever day bugs left unpatched?
- Addressing vulnerabilities can be costly in terms of development, testing, and deployment of patches.
- Patching a vulnerability may cause compatibility issues with existing software.
- Manufacturers may assess the risk associated with the vulnerability as low, believing it's unlikely to be exploited.
- If the software in question is no longer actively supported or has reached its end of life, manufacturers may be less inclined to release patches for it.
- Smaller software vendors or open-source projects may lack the resources to address all reported vulnerabilities promptly.
- In some cases, companies may choose not to patch certain vulnerabilities for strategic reasons (like using them for lawful surveillance or intelligence purposes).
- Manufacturers may shift the responsibility to users and recommend specific security configurations or workarounds to avoid the threat this vulnerability poses.
Where can forever day bugs be found?
- Operating systems like Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems like Android and iOS.
- Commonly used software applications, including web browsers, office productivity suites, media players, and more.
- Server software (e.g., for web, email, or database servers).
- Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as smart home appliances, connected cameras, and industrial IoT devices.
- Firmware that runs on various hardware devices, including routers and printers.
