A developer is writing code for a new application and wants to implement controls to prevent buffer overflow attacks. Which of the following BEST describes the role of input validation in this context?
It completely mitigates the risk of buffer overflow vulnerabilities, making other protections redundant.
It is primarily used to prevent SQL injection and is not an effective control for buffer overflows.
It is only effective for client-side protection and cannot prevent server-side buffer overflow attacks.
It is a primary defense mechanism but should be combined with other techniques like bounds checking and runtime protections for comprehensive security.
Input validation is a crucial first line of defense against many types of attacks, including buffer overflows. By checking that input conforms to expected length, type, and format, it can prevent many overflow attempts. However, it is not a foolproof solution on its own and can be bypassed or implemented improperly. For comprehensive protection, input validation must be part of a defense-in-depth strategy that also includes other secure coding practices (like bounds checking), using memory-safe languages and functions where possible, and enabling runtime protections such as Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) and Data Execution Prevention (DEP).
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What are some examples of input validation techniques?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What are bounds checking and canaries in secure coding practices?