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# Usage of Weak Hashing Library on a Password (SHA-1)

## Overview

* **Rule ID**: `java_lang_weak_password_hash_sha1`
* **Applicable Languages**: Java
* **Weakness ID**: CWE-326

## Description

Using a weak hashing algorithm like SHA-1 for passwords increases the risk of data breaches. SHA-1 is vulnerable to collision attacks, where distinct inputs can produce the same hash value, compromising data integrity and security.

## Remediation Guidelines

* **Do not** use SHA-1 for hashing passwords or sensitive data due to its vulnerabilities.

  ```java
  MessageDigest md = MessageDigest.getInstance("SHA-1");
  ```
* **Instead, use** stronger hashing algorithms such as SHA-256 to improve security.

  ```java
  MessageDigest md = MessageDigest.getInstance("SHA-256");
  ```

## References

* [**Java MessageDigest class**](https://docs.oracle.com/en/java/javase/20/docs/api/java.base/java/security/MessageDigest.html)
* [**CWE-326: Inadequate Encryption Strength**](https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/326.html)
* [**OWASP Top 10: A02:2021 - Cryptographic Failures**](https://owasp.org/Top10/A02_2021-Cryptographic_Failures/)

## Configuration

To omit this rule during a scan, and to provide you with continuous 24/7 code-level scanning, you can employ our [**SAST TOOL**](https://scopy.sec1.io/login)