Driving Home the Buffer Overflow Problem: A Training Module for Programmers and Managers

Driving Home the Buffer Overflow Problem: A Training Module for Programmers and Managers
Driving Home the Buffer Overflow Problem: A Training Module for Programmers and Managers
File Size:
67.78 kB
Author:
Jedidiah R. Crandall, Susan L. Gerhart, Jan G. Hogle
Date:
01 June 2002
Downloads:
962 x

Repeatedly, news headlines read: "Buffer overflow in vendor’s product allows intruders to take over computer!” This widespread programming mistake is easy to make, exacerbated by the ubiquitous C language, and very simple to exploit. We describe a demonstration (a Java applet) appropriate for a traditional programming course to drive home key points: why buffer overflows occur, how overflows open the door to attackers, and why certain defense mechanisms should be used. The module is in its early stages of experimental use, with a formative evaluation to determine how well the module works and opportunities for its improvement.

 
 
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