TLDR: Error messages are notifications provided by systems or applications to inform users or developers about issues encountered during execution. Introduced in early programming languages like Fortran in the 1950s, error messages are essential for diagnosing and resolving problems, ensuring smoother application operation and user experience. Well-designed error messages are concise, descriptive, and actionable.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Error_message

A critical aspect of error messages is their clarity. Ambiguous or overly technical messages can confuse users or developers, hindering problem resolution. For example, a vague message like “Error Code 12345” is less helpful than “Database connection timeout. Check your network settings or database server availability.” Modern systems strive to provide actionable information while avoiding excessive technical jargon.

https://www.nngroup.com/articles/error-message-guidelines/

Security concerns play a significant role in designing error messages. Exposing sensitive details, such as stack traces, SQL queries, or internal file paths, can aid attackers in exploiting vulnerabilities. Adopting practices like displaying generic messages to end-users while logging detailed information internally aligns with OWASP Top Ten recommendations for secure Error Handling.

https://cheatsheetseries.owasp.org/cheatsheets/Error_Handling_Cheat_Sheet.html

Effective error messages are vital for debugging and improving application reliability. Tools like SonarQube or Pylint help developers identify error-prone code and improve error handling during development. By following guidelines for clear, secure, and actionable messages, developers can enhance the user experience and system robustness, minimizing downtime and confusion.

https://www.sonarsource.com/products/sonarqube/

Error message