Fuzzing: Art, Science and Engineering

04.06.2024

Introduction

Fuzzing, or fuzzing, is a software testing method that involves automatically generating random data and submitting it to the input of the system under test. The goal of fuzzing is to identify vulnerabilities and errors that can lead to crashes, data leaks, or other undesirable consequences. In this article, we will look at different approaches to fuzzing and their application in the field of security.

Basic approaches to fuzzing

1. Dumb Fuzzing

Simple fuzzing involves generating completely random data without taking into account the structure and context of the system under test. This method is the least complex, but also the least effective, since the likelihood of finding vulnerabilities in complex systems with its help is low.

2. Smart Fuzzing

Smart fuzzing uses knowledge of the structure and context of the system under test to generate more targeted test data. This method requires preliminary analysis of the system and the creation of models, which makes it more complex, but also more effective compared to simple fuzzing.

3. Mutation-Based Fuzzing

Mutation-based fuzzing involves modifying existing valid input data to create new test cases. This method allows you to preserve the data structure, which increases the likelihood of finding vulnerabilities.

4. Generation-Based Fuzzing

Generation-based fuzzing involves creating test data from scratch based on predefined rules and models. This method requires a deep understanding of the system under test and generates data that closely matches actual operating conditions.

Using fuzzing in security

1. Detection of vulnerabilities

Fuzzing is one of the most effective methods for detecting software vulnerabilities. Automatic generation of large amounts of test data allows you to identify errors that may be missed during manual testing.

2. Testing the security of network protocols

Fuzzing is widely used to test the security of network protocols. Generating random or targeted data allows you to identify vulnerabilities that can be used to launch attacks on network systems.

3. Testing web applications

Fuzzing is also used to test the security of web applications. Generating various input data allows you to identify vulnerabilities such as SQL injections, XSS attacks and others.

4. Embedded systems testing

Fuzzing can be used to test the security of embedded systems such as IoT devices. Generating random data allows us to identify vulnerabilities that can be used to launch attacks on these devices.

Conclusion

Fuzzing is a powerful tool for software security testing. Different approaches to fuzzing allow this method to be adapted to different types of systems and tasks. The use of fuzzing in the field of security allows you to identify vulnerabilities and increase the reliability and security of software.