Common vulnerabilities in web development: XSS, CSRF, SQL Injection and more

Web security is a critical topic that often doesn't receive the attention it deserves. With the increasing number of web applications and sophistication of attacks, it's essential to understand common vulnerabilities to protect applications from potential exploits. In this article, we'll explore some of the most common vulnerabilities, such as XSS, CSRF, SQL Injection, and others that can put both user integrity and privacy at risk.

1. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious code (usually JavaScript) into a web page viewed by other users. This malicious code can be used to steal sensitive data, such as session cookies, or to perform unwanted actions on behalf of the user.

2. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)

Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is an attack where an attacker tricks the user into performing an unwanted action on a web application where they're authenticated. For example, an attacker can induce a user to click on a link that unknowingly sends a password change request to a server using the victim's credentials.

3. SQL Injection (SQLi)

SQL injection is a vulnerability that allows an attacker to execute malicious SQL queries on a database through unvalidated data input. Attackers can gain unauthorized access to the database, steal confidential information, modify data, or even delete the entire database.

4. Other Common Vulnerabilities

4.1 Insecure Deserialization

Insecure deserialization occurs when deserialized data (such as JSON or XML objects) is manipulated by an attacker to execute malicious code or alter the application flow. Prevention involves strict validation of deserialized inputs and using secure mechanisms to handle this data.

4.2 Directory Traversal

The Directory Traversal vulnerability allows an attacker to access files outside the intended directory, which can lead to sensitive file disclosure. This can be prevented by ensuring file paths are properly validated and restricted.

4.3 Command Injection

Command Injection occurs when an attacker can execute operating system commands through a vulnerability in the application. Protection is achieved by validating inputs and avoiding data concatenation in system commands.

4.4 Clickjacking

Clickjacking deceives users into clicking on invisible elements or disguised interfaces. You can prevent this by implementing the X-Frame-Options header or using Content Security Policy (CSP) to prevent your site from being displayed in an iframe.

Web security is a fundamental aspect that shouldn't be overlooked during application development. Vulnerabilities like XSS, CSRF, and SQL Injection are some of the most common and dangerous, but with proper security measures, it's possible to protect against them. Always make sure to validate user inputs, use security techniques like tokens and prepared queries, and stay updated with cybersecurity best practices.

Remember that prevention is always the best strategy. By protecting your application from the start, you can avoid many long-term problems and protect your users' privacy and security.