There are many ways attackers are able to target web applications (websites that allow you to communicate with software via browsers) to steal confidential information, introduce malicious code, and hijack your computer or device. These attacks exploit vulnerabilities in components like web apps or content management systems. They also attack web servers.
Web app attacks account for large proportions of security threats. In the past 10 years attackers have sharpened their skills at identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities that impact application perimeter defenses. Attackers are able to circumvent the most common defenses using methods like phishing, social engineering and botnets.
A phishing attack consists of tricking victims into clicking a email link containing malware. This malware is downloaded onto their computer, which allows attackers to hijack devices or systems for other goals. Botnets are a collection of compromised neoerudition.net/ma-data-rooms-are-excellent-option-to-create-a-well-organized-virtual-working-space/ or infected devices that attackers use to conduct DDoS attacks in spreading malware, perpetuating fraud through ads, and much more.
Directory traversal attacks employ patterns of movement to gain access to files, configuration databases, and other files on a website. Protecting against this type of attack requires proper input sanitization.
SQL injection attacks target the database that holds crucial site and service information by injecting malicious code that allows it to override security safeguards and reveal information that it normally would not. Attackers are then able to execute commands such as dump databases, etc.
Cross-site scripting (or XSS) attacks insert malicious code on a trusted website to hijack users’ browsers. This enables attackers to take session cookies and private information and impersonate users, alter content, and more.