A proof-of-concept virus is a method of identifying and removing a software vulnerability or flaw by creating a virus that actually exploits that vulnerability. It is a type of non-malicious software virus that aims to identify, evaluate and remove vulnerability from a software or system.
A proof-of-concept virus is typically created by a virus or information security (IS) researcher. It works when a researcher, or anyone with IS and programming skills, identifies a software vulnerability, bug or error that can jeopardize that system's security. After identification, the individual writes a virus that uses that vulnerability to exploit the software or break into the system. The individual later shares this with the owner/developer of the software or with the anti-virus vendor, in order to help them mitigate or remove it.
Share this Term
Tech moves fast! Stay ahead of the curve with Techopedia!
Join nearly 200,000 subscribers who receive actionable tech insights from Techopedia.
Latest Articles
By: John Meah | Freelance Writer |Cybersecurity Oversight Specialist | Expert Reviewer
By: Claudio Buttice | Data Analyst, Contributor
By: Dr. Tehseen Zia | Assistant Professor at Comsats University Islamabad
