Exploit is a term used to describe the use of computer code and hardware vulnerabilities for malicious purposes. An exploit can be used in order to gain unauthorized access, disrupt system operations, or cause other types of damage. Exploits are often associated with cybercrime activities such as identity theft, ransomware attacks, and data breaches.
There are several different types of exploits that attackers may choose from when attempting to gain control over vulnerable systems:
1) Buffer overflows – This type of exploit involves sending more data than what is expected by the application being targeted. The extra information can then be used to overwrite critical program instructions allowing an attacker full control over it;
2) SQL injection – In this attack method an intruder attempts to inject malicious SQL statements into web applications in order to manipulate databases or steal sensitive information;
3) Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) – XSS allows intruders inject their own malicious JavaScript code into websites which will execute within a user’s browser session;
4) Remote File Inclusion (RFI)- RFI occurs when an attacker takes advantage of improperly configured scripts on webservers in order to upload arbitrary files onto them;
5) Zero Day Attack – A zero day attack refers any vulnerability that has yet been discovered and patched by software developers before hackers have had chance take advantage of it .
In addition there exists tools available online which automate certain aspects of exploitation making them easy for even novice attackers mount successful campaigns against unprotected targets. It is important therefore for organizations keep all systems up-to-date with latest security patches so these automated attacks won’t succeed .
