Prevent Cross Site Scripting Attacks

Knowing how to prevent cross site scripting attacks is very important. These days, applications are very susceptible to damaging attacks. This is why learning how to prevent cross site scripting attacks is emphasized. Normally, web application became the main target of many hackers. Why is it so? What types of attacks are initiated against most web applications and how do one deal with this? In order to prevent cross site scripting attacks, you have to know the kinds of threats that may target your database and computer systems. The following subsequent measures provide what risk you’re in danger of and how to counterbalance them.

Different kinds of attacks

Learning what kinds of threats you are at risk of can be very beneficial. Take note that along with cross site scripting, these other attacks might also accompany the said threat:

• Cross Site Scripting (XSS)
• SQL injection
• Format string vulnerabilities
• Remote code execution
• Enumeration of different usernames

Cross Site Scripting

This attack becomes successful when the target suddenly turns out capable of writing a malicious URL. This URL may appear legitimate only to have a very risky constitution. At first look this kind of attack might not be identifiable. The malicious URL is very deceptive. For instance, the generated malicious JavaScript will just suddenly process an XSS bug. In this case, there are several countermeasures which you can do to fight off this attack:

• Implementing input validation

• Utilization of a protected language. All applications should be written under this language. Look for highly rated programming software to ensure that you are indeed using a protected application.

SQL Injection

Although SQL injection may be an old fashioned type of attack, many hackers are still using it. Through an SQL injection attack, the hackers gain access to the database of the server. Confidential information becomes exposed and other systems may be manipulated once the attack is done properly. SQL injection attack has different extents. For instance a basic attack only allows access to the database whereas a full blown SQL injection grants remote access and authorization to change things.

There are several ways to fight an SQL injection attack. One way is to refrain from accessing the database as its principal owner or as a super user. It’s better to use databases which can be customized according to users. This kind of database limits the kind of access a user is granted with. There is also limit in terms of the task that can be accomplished. Execute input validation. It’s best that you don’t provide the client with an error response.

Format String Vulnerabilities

This kind of error takes place when user input is not filtered. Since the user input is not filtered, there are ways wherein a malicious user may input data which can hack the system. There are several commands that can be written as user input. These commands may already be malicious and yet the system recognizes them as mere inputs of the user. To fight this, try to examine and test the source code constantly.

By: Paul M Walsh

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