Common Web Security Threats

Key Concepts

• Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
• SQL Injection
• Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
• Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attack
• Session Hijacking
• Clickjacking
• Directory Traversal
• Denial of Service (DoS) Attack
• Phishing
• Malware

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability typically found in web applications. It allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. This can lead to data theft, session hijacking, and other malicious activities.

Example:

An attacker injects a script into a comment field on a blog. When other users load the page, the script executes, potentially stealing their session cookies.

SQL Injection

SQL Injection is a code injection technique that attackers use to insert malicious SQL statements into input fields for execution by the backend database. This can lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, or data theft.

Example:

An attacker enters a malicious SQL query into a login form, bypassing authentication and gaining access to the database.

Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)

Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is an attack that forces an end user to execute unwanted actions on a web application in which they are currently authenticated. This can lead to unauthorized transactions or changes in the user's account.

Example:

An attacker tricks a user into clicking a link that sends a request to transfer funds from their bank account to the attacker's account.

Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attack

A Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attack occurs when an attacker intercepts and potentially alters the communication between two parties without their knowledge. This can lead to eavesdropping, data modification, or impersonation.

Example:

An attacker intercepts and reads the communication between a user and a website, capturing sensitive information like login credentials.

Session Hijacking

Session Hijacking is the exploitation of a valid session between a user and a web application to gain unauthorized access to the user's account. This can lead to data theft, account takeover, and other malicious activities.

Example:

An attacker steals a user's session cookie and uses it to impersonate the user, gaining access to their account.

Clickjacking

Clickjacking is a type of attack where an attacker tricks a user into clicking on a button or link on a different page than they are currently viewing. This can lead to unintended actions, such as making purchases or changing account settings.

Example:

An attacker overlays a transparent iframe on a legitimate website, tricking the user into clicking a button that performs an action on the hidden site.

Directory Traversal

Directory Traversal is a security vulnerability that allows attackers to access files and directories outside the intended directory. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive files and data.

Example:

An attacker uses "../" sequences in a URL to navigate to the root directory and access sensitive files like configuration files or password lists.

Denial of Service (DoS) Attack

A Denial of Service (DoS) Attack is an attempt to make a machine or network resource unavailable to its intended users. This can be achieved by flooding the target with traffic or sending it specially crafted requests.

Example:

An attacker floods a website with a high volume of requests, overwhelming the server and causing it to crash or become unresponsive.

Phishing

Phishing is a type of social engineering attack often used to steal user data, including login credentials and credit card numbers. It involves tricking users into providing sensitive information by impersonating a legitimate entity.

Example:

An attacker sends an email that appears to be from a bank, asking the user to click a link and enter their account details to resolve a security issue.

Malware

Malware is any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or computer network. This can include viruses, ransomware, spyware, and other malicious programs.

Example:

A user downloads a file from a malicious website, unknowingly installing a virus that encrypts their files and demands a ransom for their decryption.

Examples and Analogies

Think of Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) as a hidden trap in a public restroom that activates when someone enters, causing harm to the next person who uses it. SQL Injection is like a secret code that unlocks a door, allowing unauthorized access to a secure room. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is like a magician tricking someone into signing a contract without their knowledge. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attack is like eavesdropping on a private conversation through a hidden microphone. Session Hijacking is like stealing someone's house key and using it to enter their home. Clickjacking is like placing a hidden button on a legitimate website, tricking users into clicking it. Directory Traversal is like finding a hidden passage in a library that leads to restricted areas. Denial of Service (DoS) Attack is like flooding a store with so many customers that it becomes impossible to serve anyone. Phishing is like receiving a fake letter from a bank asking for your account details. Malware is like a ticking time bomb that explodes when activated, causing damage to your computer.