A software program writes data in temporary memory area for fast processing, which is called a buffer. With a buffer overflow attack, an attacker can overwrite a portion of memory connected with the buffer. An attacker can deliberately cause a buffer overflow and access connected memory, where an application executable may be stored. The attacker can replace the executable with the actual program and take control of the entire system. Buffer overflow attacks can cause memory corruption with unintentional memory modification, which the hacker can use to inject code.

Looking at the overall application, there are more security threats that exist at the infrastructure layer, network layer, and data layer. Let's explore some standard methods to mitigate and prevent security risks at the web layer.