exploit
What is an exploit in cybersecurity?
An exploit is a piece of code, technique, or method that attackers use to take advantage of a security vulnerability in a system, application, or network. Exploits allow attackers to bypass normal security controls, gain unauthorized access, or execute malicious actions.
In simple terms, if a vulnerability is a weakness, an exploit is the tool used to take advantage of that weakness.
How do exploits work?
Exploits target specific vulnerabilities in software or hardware. When an attacker knows about a flaw, they can write or use an exploit to:
- Execute code remotely (RCE)
- Escalate privileges
- Steal data
- Crash systems
- Spread malware
Some exploits are highly automated and require little skill, while others are complex and tailored to specific targets.
What is a zero-day exploit?
A zero-day exploit targets a vulnerability that has not yet been disclosed or patched by the vendor. Because defenders have zero days of notice, attackers often use these exploits to launch high-impact attacks before a fix is available.
Exploits vs vulnerabilities: What's the difference?
- A vulnerability is a flaw or weakness in a system.
- An exploit is the method or code that uses the vulnerability to perform unauthorized actions.
Not every vulnerability has a known exploit. But when an exploit exists and is public, the risk level of the vulnerability increases significantly.
Stay ahead of exploits with Intruder
Scanning your systems for known and exploitable vulnerabilities is critical to staying ahead of attackers. Intruder helps teams stay protected by identifying exploitable vulnerabilities, prioritizing based on real-world threat context, and continuously monitoring your attack surface.
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