Exploit

In an exploit, vulnerabilities in a computer program are systematically exploited. Cyber criminals use exploits to try to find vulnerabilities in programmes and cause damage. Exploits are programmes that find security gaps in installed programmes and use these gaps to attack. These include viruses and ransomware. They are hidden in a Word document, for example, or sneak onto one's own computer unnoticed by visiting a virus-infected website. The malicious code is then stored in the computer's main memory. The exploits now change the programme code in the security hole of the affected programme. The injected malicious code is now executed at the corresponding point in the programme. Exploits can be prevented by, among other things, up-to-date software and security updates.