The OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project) Top 10 is a regularly updated list of the most critical web application security risks. It is a consensus document created by security experts worldwide to highlight common vulnerabilities that could compromise the security of web applications. The list provides guidance for organizations to focus on the most impactful issues in terms of security.
- Injection:
- Example: SQL Injection
- Malicious input in a login form:
username: admin'; DROP TABLE users; --
- Broken Authentication and Session Management:
- Example: Weak Password Policy
- Allowing weak passwords like “password123” can lead to easy unauthorized access.
- Cross-Site Scripting (XSS):
- Example: Stored XSS
- Attacker injects a script into a forum post; when others view it, their session data is sent to the attacker.
- Insecure Direct Object References (IDOR):
- Example: Accessing Others’ Data
- Modifying a URL parameter to access someone else’s private account.
- Security Misconfiguration:
- Example: Default Credentials
- Leaving default admin credentials in production, allowing unauthorized access.
- Sensitive Data Exposure:
- Example: Unencrypted Communication
- Transmitting sensitive data like passwords without encryption, making it susceptible to interception.
- Missing Function-Level Access Control:
- Example: Unauthorized Access to Admin Features
- Changing a URL parameter to access admin functionalities without proper authorization.
- Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF):
- Example: Unauthorized Fund Transfer
- Tricking a user into unknowingly transferring funds by embedding a malicious request in an image link.
- Using Components with Known Vulnerabilities:
- Example: Outdated Library
- Using an outdated version of a JavaScript library with a known security flaw.
- Insufficient Logging and Monitoring:
- Example: Undetected Data Breach
- Failing to log and monitor user activities, leading to a data breach without timely detection.
These examples illustrate the types of vulnerabilities and potential consequences associated with each category in the OWASP Top 10. Always ensure that your applications are secure by following best practices and staying informed about potential threats and vulnerabilities.
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