What occurs with software during a zero-day exploit?

During a zero-day exploit, the software's vulnerability is exploited before a fix is made available. This term "zero-day" refers to the fact that the software vendor has had zero days to address the newly discovered vulnerability, meaning they are unaware of it and have not yet developed a patch or update to mitigate the risk.

Zero-day exploits are particularly dangerous because they can be used by attackers to compromise systems, steal data, or deploy malware while the software developers work on a resolution, often catching users and security systems off guard. The lack of an available fix at the moment of exploitation enhances the potential for widespread damage because users remain vulnerable without any countermeasures in place.

Understanding this concept is crucial for recognizing the importance of timely updates and the need for vigilance in cybersecurity practices to protect against such vulnerabilities.