Inside the Security Mind: Making the Tough Decisions

Modern Exploits

An exploit run against a vulnerable object will result in a hacker being able to perform actions without authorization. What exactly a hacker can do really depends on the type of exploit used against our weaknesses. There are several classifications for exploits; we will take a look at the most common and important ones in this section:

• DoS

• Penetration

• Entry-point searching

• Back doors

• Cracking

• Social engineering

• Chained exploits

DoS Exploits

DoS attacks are by far the most commonly practiced exploits. The reason for this is quite simple; they are the easiest and quickest ways to affect an object. Anyone at all can run a successful DoS attack using only a low-end desktop and some easily obtainable hacker tools. It is simply a matter ...