How does a buffer overflow attack typically operate?

A buffer overflow attack typically occurs when a program writes more data to a buffer than it can hold, which can lead to the overwriting of adjacent memory locations. This is often exploited by attackers as a means of executing arbitrary code. The process generally involves the attacker deliberately sending more data into a buffer than it is intended to handle, effectively replacing or overwriting the memory that contains the function return addresses or other crucial control data with malicious code.

Once this code resides in the buffer, when the program tries to execute the instructions beyond the bounds of the allocated space, it inadvertently jumps to the attacker’s code, allowing them to execute harmful actions or gain unauthorized access to systems. This underscores the significance of proper buffer management in programming to prevent such vulnerabilities.

The other options do not accurately represent the mechanics of buffer overflow attacks. Filling a buffer with legitimate data until a crash occurs does not necessarily result in code execution. Encrypting data is a defensive method rather than an attack vector, and sending excessive requests to a server relates more to denial-of-service (DoS) attacks rather than buffer overflow techniques.