Memory Buffer Overflow

Memory buffer overflow vulnerabilities represent a critical attack vector within the Payload Execution phase, specifically under Remote Code Execution Exploitation techniques. These vulnerabilities occur when a program writes data beyond the allocated bounds of a memory buffer, overwriting adjacent memory locations. This allows attackers to inject malicious code and potentially alter the execution flow of a targeted application. By carefully crafting input that exceeds buffer boundaries, attackers can overwrite critical memory structures such as return addresses on the stack or function pointers on the heap, redirecting execution to their payload. Common buffer overflow variants include stack-based overflows (manipulating the return address), heap-based overflows (corrupting heap management structures), and format string vulnerabilities (exploiting improper string format handling). The exploitation typically requires understanding of the target system's memory architecture, including memory layout, address space randomization mitigations, and executable space protection mechanisms. When successfully executed, buffer overflow attacks can lead to privilege escalation, arbitrary code execution, or complete system compromise, making them one of the most consequential vulnerabilities in application security.