There are many ways hackers are able to target web applications (websites that let you connect to software using browsers) to steal sensitive information and introduce malicious code and even take over your PC or device. These attacks exploit vulnerabilities within components like web applications as well as content management systems and web servers.
Web app attacks comprise the majority of security threats. In the last decade attackers have sharpened their abilities in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities that can affect security perimeters for applications. Attackers are able to bypass the common defenses by employing techniques like botnets, phishing, or social engineering.
Phishing attacks fool victims into clicking an email that contains malware. This malware downloads to their computer, allowing attackers to steal devices or systems to use for other motives. Botnets are groups of infected and compromised connected devices, which attackers utilize to launch DDoS attacks, spread malware, continue fraud through ads, and more.
Directory (or path) traversal attacks use movements patterns avg secure browser review to gain access to files on the website, its configuration files and databases. To protect yourself from this type of attack requires an appropriate sanitization of inputs.
SQL injection attacks target databases that stores important information about a service or website by injecting malicious code that enables it to override security safeguards and disclose information that normally wouldn’t. Attackers can run commands, dump database information and more.
Cross-site scripting (or XSS) attacks insert malicious code on a trusted website to hijack users’ browsers. This allows attackers to steal session cookies and private information, impersonate a user to alter content, and more.