Remote Code Execution (RCE): A type of cyber-attack where an attacker exploits vulnerabilities in a system or application to execute arbitrary commands or code on a target machine or in a target process. An RCE attack can lead to a complete compromise of the targeted system, giving the attacker the ability to steal, alter, or delete data or use the system as a launchpad for further attacks. Preventing RCE attacks often involves regular patching, code sanitization, and effective use of firewalls and other security tools.