What is the defining condition in a buffer overflow?
Answer
Input exceeds the expected buffer size and overwrites memory
Explanation
### Why this is right
A buffer overflow occurs when data exceeds the capacity expected for a buffer and overwrites adjacent memory. Depending on the program, the overwritten data may affect control information.
### The concept
A buffer is a memory area intended to hold data. If code fails to enforce its size limits, an oversized input can overwrite nearby values, potentially including a return address. The result may be a crash or redirected execution.
### The other options
- **A user enters a password too slowly**: timing alone is not a buffer overflow.
- **A network packet is encrypted twice**: encryption layers do not define a memory overflow.
- **A service accepts more users than expected**: this may affect capacity but is not necessarily memory corruption.
### Terms
- **Buffer overflow**: writing beyond a buffer's intended capacity.
- **Return address**: information used to resume program execution after a function.
### Remember
Look for oversized input overwriting memory.
Related Questions
- Explain why computer security is described as a process rather than a product. Include the roles of technology, people, and environment.(intermediate)
- Select ALL items the review identifies as possible security risks or losses.(intermediate)
- Arrange these broad security activities in a sensible cycle, beginning with identifying what needs protection.(intermediate)
- A security product can replace the continuing work of managing people, technology, and the operating environment.(intermediate)
- Which statement best captures the course review’s view of computer security?(intermediate)
Want to practice more questions like this?
Join myBenkio free and practice past questions for your Nigerian university courses with AI explanations for every answer.
Start Practicing Free