Pointer error

A pointer error in a computer program is any mistake involving pointer variables. Common errors include confusing the value of the pointer forgetting whether a varable contains the desired value, or a memory reference to the desired value. You might want to do arithmetic on a variable, but accidentally do that operation on the pointer to the variable instead.

Another error, which can lead to memory corruption and excruciatingly difficult debugging sessions, arises when a pointer goes beyond its proper bounds. If the program writes to (or even reads from) the wrong area of memory, unpredictable results can occur.

See:

• buffer overflow
• dereference operator