Prevent Buffer Overflow in C: Secure Coding Tips

There are several methods that can be taken to avoid buffer overflow.

1. Utilize secure functions like strncpy(), strlcpy(), snprintf() instead of unsafe functions like strcpy(), sprintf(). These secure functions allow you to specify the size of the buffer to prevent buffer overflow.
2. Validate input data: When handling user input data, it is important to validate and filter the data to ensure that it does not exceed the size of the buffer.
3. Use dynamic memory allocation: if possible, use dynamic memory allocation functions such as malloc(), calloc(), or realloc() to allocate memory dynamically, instead of using static buffers.
4. Use boundary check: When working with arrays, make sure to check that the array’s access does not go beyond its boundaries to prevent accessing memory outside of the array’s range.
5. Utilize stack protection tools such as StackGuard, Canary, or ASLR to detect and prevent buffer overflow vulnerabilities.