Definition
Heap spray is an old technique of executing arbitrary code to attack and exploit vulnerable networks and systems.
The attacker puts a sequence of bytes to a specific location in a system or computer’s memory (heap), a process known as spraying the heap.
By writing to the heap, the attacker assumes control of a network or system and executes commands using programming languages such as HTML5, JavaScript, and VBScript.
Generally, heap spray is not an attack but a way of making a cyberattack more successful.
History of Heap Spraying
Heap spraying was developed in the late 1990s and early 2000s as a more reliable way to execute code in software vulnerabilities. One of its first well-known applications was the exploitation of Microsoft Internet Explorer.
However, exploiting software vulnerabilities with heap spray has become more challenging with the emergence of advanced software defensive measures and security practices. Modern-day operating systems and browsers integrate sophisticated security defenses such as memory randomization, sandboxing among other techniques to prevent heap spraying and other forms of attack.
Heap Spray Prevention
- Create an allocation history: You should have a list that details allocations and cancellations made on your system or computer.
- Detect shellcode execution: Shellcode consists of instructions that execute commands within the software to exploit vulnerabilities in compromised computers or gain control over the computer. Implementing detection systems for shellcode can effectively prevent heap spray attacks.
- Use an antivirus program: Some antivirus software applications have features that detect harmful code that a heap spray might carry.
- Update your system: Ensure that your computer system, antivirus programs, and browsers are regularly updated with the latest security patches.
