There are many ways hackers could target web applications (websites that allow you to interact with software using a browser) to steal confidential information and introduce malicious code and then take over your computer or device. These attacks exploit vulnerabilities in components such as web apps as well as content management systems and web servers.
Web app attacks make up large proportions of security threats. In the last decade, attackers have improved their capabilities in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities that impact application perimeter defences. Attackers are able to evade the most common defenses using techniques such as phishing, social engineering and botnets.
A phishing attack is a method of tricking victims into clicking on an email link that contains malware. This malware is downloaded to the victim’s PC and gives attackers access to devices or systems. Botnets are collections of compromised or infected devices used by attackers to carry out DDoS attacks, spreading malware, perpetuating fraud in advertising and more.
Directory traversal attacks use movements patterns to gain unauthorised access to files, configuration databases, and files on the website. To defend against this type of attack requires proper input sanitization.
SQL injection attacks target databases that stores important site and service information by injecting malicious code that enables it to bypass security measures and divulge information it normally would not. Attackers are then able to execute commands that dump databases, as well as other.
Cross-site scripting (or XSS) attacks insert malicious code on a trusted website to take over users’ browsers. This allows attackers to access session cookies as well as confidential information, impersonate users, manipulate content and more.