An exploit chain is a sequence of multiple vulnerabilities or attack techniques used together to successfully compromise a system.
Modern operating systems contain numerous security protections designed to prevent a single flaw from giving attackers full control. Because of this, attackers often need to combine several vulnerabilities in a specific order.
This combination is known as an exploit chain.
How Exploit Chains Work
A typical exploit chain might include:
-
Initial entry point
A vulnerability that allows the attacker to execute code on the device. -
Privilege escalation
A second vulnerability that allows the attacker to gain higher system permissions. -
Security bypass
A technique used to disable system protections or sandbox restrictions. -
Persistence mechanism
Software that allows the attacker to maintain access to the device over time.
Each step builds on the previous one until the attacker gains full control of the target system.
Why Exploit Chains Are Important
Many advanced attacks rely on exploit chains because modern platforms like iOS and Android use layered security protections.
Breaking through these layers typically requires multiple vulnerabilities working together.
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