How do stack overflow attacks exploit stack smashing?
Terms involved:
Stack overflow:
When the data input in the defined stack exceeds the memory attocated to it, then it corrups the other data in the stack.
In general it is called as buffer overflow because it affects the whole buffer attocated.
Stack smashing:
It is the term used when stack overflow is caused deliberately.
Explanation:
It is a widespread and one of the oldest techniques used by attackers. When a stack takes input from non-trusted sources then attackers(hackers) might used this bug(loophole) of stack overflow to insert malicious programs that may corrupt the memory for gaining unauthorized control over a system.
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