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When a larger scope than necessary is used, code becomes less readable, harder to maintain, and more likely to reference unintended variables . (See see DCL01-C. Do not reuse variable names in subscopes).)

Noncompliant Code Example

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In this compliant solution, the function f() is declared as externalwith internal linkage. This practice limits the scope of the function declaration to the current compilation unit and prevents the function from being included in the external symbol table. It also limits cluttering in the global name space and prevents the function from being accidentally or intentionally invoked from another compilation unit. See DCL15-C. Declare file-scope objects or functions that do not need external linkage as static for more information.

static int f(int i) {
  /* Function definition */
}

int g(int i) {
  int j = f(i);
  /* ... */
} 

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Failure to minimize scope could result in less reliable, readable, and reusable code.

Automated Detection

Related Vulnerabilities

Search for vulnerabilities resulting from the violation of this rule on the CERT website.

Related Guidelines

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