What are heap overflows and their impact on software security?

What are heap overflows and their impact on software security?

Heap overflows occur when data exceeds the allocated memory in the heap, potentially leading to data corruption or security vulnerabilities.

Can you give me an example of how a heap overflow can be exploited?

Sure! An attacker might exploit a heap overflow to overwrite function pointers, redirecting execution flow to malicious code.

What measures can developers take to prevent heap overflows?

Developers can use safe memory management practices, such as bounds checking, and employ tools like AddressSanitizer to detect vulnerabilities.

Are there any real-world incidents caused by heap overflows?

Yes, several high-profile vulnerabilities have been linked to heap overflows, leading to data breaches and system compromises.