There are many ways hackers can attack web applications (websites that let you interact with software through a browser) to steal private information and introduce malicious code and then take over your computer or device. These attacks exploit weaknesses in web applications, such as or content management systems. They also attack web servers.
Web app attacks comprise an overwhelming portion of security threats. In the last decade, attackers have honed their skills in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities that compromise the perimeter defenses of applications. Attackers are able to evade the most commonly used defenses by using techniques like phishing, social engineering and botnets.
Phishing attacks fool victims into clicking an email link with malware. This malware is downloaded to the victim’s system and grants attackers access to systems or devices. Botnets are collections of compromised and infected devices, which attackers use to launch DDoS attacks, spread malware, continue fraud through ads, and more.
Directory (or path) traversal attacks exploit movements patterns to gain access to the data on websites, their configuration files and databases. In order to protect against this kind of attack requires the right input sanitization.
SQL injection attacks seek to target the database storing critical website and service information by injecting malicious codes that allow it to reveal information it would not normally divulge. Attackers can run commands, dump database information and more.
Cross-site scripting (or XSS) attacks insert malicious code inside a trusted website to hijack users’ browsers. This allows attackers to steal session cookies and private information, impersonate a user or alter content, and many more.
