How can I increase memory security in Delphi?

Question

Is it possible to \"wipe\" strings in Delphi? Let me explain:

I am writing an application that will include a DLL to authorise users. It will read an encrypted file

Answer 1

If you use the FastMM memory manager in Full Debug mode, then you can force it to overwrite memory when it is being freed.

Normally that behaviour is used to detect wild pointers, but it can also be used for what your want.

On the other hand, make sure you understand what Craig Stuntz writes: do not write this authentication and authorization stuff yourself, use the underlying operating system whenever possible.

BTW: Hallvard Vassbotn wrote a nice blog about FastMM: http://hallvards.blogspot.com/2007/05/use-full-fastmm-consider-donating.html

Regards,

Jeroen Pluimers