Exploit (computer security)
- Snippet from Wikipedia: Exploit (computer security)
An exploit is a method or piece of code that takes advantage of vulnerabilities in software, applications, networks, operating systems, or hardware, typically for malicious purposes. The term "exploit" derives from the English verb "to exploit," meaning "to use something to one’s own advantage." Exploits are designed to identify flaws, bypass security measures, gain unauthorized access to systems, take control of systems, install malware, or steal sensitive data. While an exploit by itself may not be a malware, it serves as a vehicle for delivering malicious software by breaching security controls.
Exploits target vulnerabilities, which are essentially flaws or weaknesses in a system's defenses. Common targets for exploits include operating systems, web browsers, and various applications, where hidden vulnerabilities can compromise the integrity and security of computer systems. Exploits can cause unintended or unanticipated behavior in systems, potentially leading to severe security breaches.
Many exploits are designed to provide superuser-level access to a computer system. Attackers may use multiple exploits in succession to first gain low-level access and then escalate privileges repeatedly until they reach the highest administrative level, often referred to as "root." This technique of chaining several exploits together to perform a single attack is known as an exploit chain.
Exploits that remain unknown to everyone except the individuals who discovered and developed them are referred to as zero-day or "0day" exploits. After an exploit is disclosed to the authors of the affected software, the associated vulnerability is often fixed through a patch, rendering the exploit unusable. This is why some black hat hackers, as well as military or intelligence agency hackers, do not publish their exploits but keep them private. One scheme that offers zero-day exploits is known as exploit as a service.
Researchers estimate that malicious exploits cost the global economy over US$450 billion annually. In response to this threat, organizations are increasingly utilizing cyber threat intelligence to identify vulnerabilities and prevent hacks before they occur.