How to Detect Exploits of the GHOST Buffer Overflow Vulnerability
February 12, 2015Swati Khandelwal
The GHOST vulnerability is a buffer overflow condition that can be easily exploited locally and remotely, which makes it extremely dangerous. This vulnerability is named after the GetHOSTbyname function involved in the exploit. Attackers utilize buffer overflow vulnerabilities like this one by sending specific packets of data to a vulnerable system. The attack allows the attacker to execute arbitrary code and take control of the victim's vulnerable machine. Unfortunately, the vulnerability exists in the GNU C Library (glibc) , a code library originally released in 2000, meaning it has been widely distributed. Many derivative programs utilize the glibc to carry out common tasks. Although an update released by Linux in 2013 mitigated this vulnerability, most systems and products have not installed the patch. What Can I Do About GHOST Vulnerability? Like with any vulnerability, the best way to mitigate GHOST vulnerability is to identify vulnerable systems, prioritize th