We are all looking for ways to keep our data safe among all the possible dangers and attacks common on the Internet these days. Most of this data is stored on our apps. Our precious data, from banking information to private messages, exists within these applications, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. Because of such attacks, not only could our privacy be in harm, but they can also lead to serious financial or reputational losses.
But how can we protect ourselves against these attacks? Well, here comes the WAF – Web Application Firewall. This powerful tool is specifically designed to mitigate common attacks on web applications, serving as a protective shield for our invaluable digital data.
Here, we provide a better understanding of the most widespread attacks on web applications and how a WAF can keep us safe in this challenging digital terrain. But, before everything, if you want to know more about the basics of Web Application Firewall, you can check our blog, What is WAF?
What are Web Application Attacks?
Web application attacks are cyber threats where hackers try to mess with the websites or web apps we use daily. They use different strategies which can help us better protect our digital spaces. Let’s have a look at some of these types.
1. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
Cross-Site Scripting is like an unwanted guest who leaves a nasty surprise. Here, the attacker injects malicious scripts into an otherwise trustworthy website.
Reflected XSS
This is like a quick punch. The attacker sends the script through a URL or a form, and it activates as soon as you open it.
Stored XSS
This one’s more sneaky. The malicious script is stored on the server and affects any user that triggers it.
DOM-based XSS
Here, the script manipulates the structure of your web pages (the Document Object Model or DOM), creating security loopholes.
2. SQL Injection
SQL Injection attacks are like thieves with a skeleton key, manipulating the SQL language to access or corrupt a database.
In-band SQL Injection
The hacker uses the same communication channel to launch the attack and gather results.
Inferential/Blind SQL Injection
This is a slow and patient attack where the attacker sends payloads to the server, interpreting its responses to gain unauthorized access.
Out-of-band SQL Injection
When the in-band method doesn’t work, the attacker uses a different channel to collect the data.
3. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
Cross-Site Request Forgery tricks the victim into submitting a malicious request. It’s like a puppet master controlling a user’s actions without them knowing.
4. Remote File Inclusion (RFI) and Local File Inclusion (LFI)
Both RFI and LFI involve using loopholes to run harmful files. RFI attacks use remote files, while LFI exploits files on the victim’s system.
5. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)
Think of DDoS like a crowd blocking an exit. Multiple systems overwhelm the target with traffic, causing a shutdown.
6. Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF)
Server-Side Request Forgery is when an attacker tricks a server into connecting to other systems, opening the gate to potential damage.
7. Code Injection
Code Injection is like injecting venom into a system. The attacker inserts harmful code that alters the application’s operation or retrieves data without authorization.
8. Command Injection
Command Injection is a step further, where the attacker takes over the operating system through a vulnerable application, taking control of the server.
Understanding these attacks on web applications can be the first step to preventing them and ensuring our digital spaces remain safe and secure.
The Role of Web Application Firewall (WAF)
Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) are a key layer of online security. Essentially, WAFs act like bodyguards for web applications, shielding them from harmful requests or data. They assess and filter web traffic, distinguishing between legitimate users and potential threats.
A well-implemented WAF offers significant benefits, such as preventing data breaches, securing sensitive information, and promoting a safer digital environment. By deploying WAFs, businesses can confidently navigate the digital landscape, minimizing risks and maintaining reliable web services.
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS Attacks)
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a common cyber-attack where hackers inject harmful scripts into web pages viewed by users. We must sanitize inputs to mitigate XSS, ensuring no harmful code can sneak in. This includes validating and encoding user inputs to treat them as display text, not executable code. Additionally, using HTTP-only cookies can protect session tokens.
Lastly, implement a Content Security Policy (CSP), a layer of protection that limits the browser from executing scripts from unauthorized sources. These practices can help secure web applications and maintain a trustworthy online environment.
SQL Injection
SQL Injection is a cyber-attack where hackers manipulate SQL queries to access or modify data. To counter this, always use parameterized queries or prepared statements, ensuring input is treated as literal text, not part of SQL commands. This prevents hackers from changing the structure of your queries.
Avoid revealing database error details to users, as it may provide hackers valuable clues. Regularly updating and patching your database management system also helps, as newer versions often fix known security vulnerabilities. Implementing these practices contributes to a more secure and robust web application environment.
Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is a sly attack where hackers trick users into performing actions they didn’t intend to. To safeguard against CSRF attacks, one effective method is to use anti-CSRF tokens. These unique, random values are associated with each user session, making unauthorized actions difficult.
Secondly, implementing SameSite cookies can prevent cookies from being sent with cross-site requests. This helps stop attackers from using authenticated sessions. Lastly, employing the principle of least privilege – providing only necessary access rights to users – reduces potential damage. Adopting these measures helps ensure a safer user experience online.
Remote and Local File Inclusion
Remote and Local File Inclusion (RFI/LFI) are threats where hackers exploit vulnerabilities to run malicious files on your server. To mitigate these, first, validate user inputs strictly. Ensure they can’t point to unintended files or URLs. Next, limit the file types that can be uploaded or included in your application. This helps prevent harmful scripts from being executed.
Also, keep your web application software up-to-date. Security patches often fix known vulnerabilities. Lastly, disable or restrict the use of dangerous PHP functions that can be exploited for file inclusion. These steps can significantly strengthen your web application’s defenses.
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks can overload your website with traffic, causing it to slow down or even crash. To defend against such attacks, implement rate limiting. This restricts the number of requests a user can make within a given time, preventing overload. Secondly, utilize load balancing. It distributes network traffic across multiple servers, ensuring no single server is overwhelmed.
Employing a CDN (Content Delivery Network) can also help absorb attack traffic. Finally, consider DDoS protection services that identify and filter out attack traffic before it reaches your site. By taking these steps, you’re better equipped to maintain a smooth online experience.
Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF)
Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) is a threat where an attacker tricks a server into making requests on their behalf. To mitigate SSRF, employ strict input validation and sanitization. This ensures only valid requests are processed. Secondly, limit the server’s functionality to prevent it from making unnecessary requests, particularly to internal resources.
Firewall rules can restrict outbound traffic from your server. Lastly, keep your server’s software up-to-date and patched, as updates often include security enhancements. Implementing these strategies can significantly strengthen your server, keeping your web application secure and reliable.
Code and Command Injection
Code and Command Injection is a scenario where attackers exploit an application to run unauthorized commands. To counter this, always validate and sanitize user input. Inputs should be treated as data, not executable code. If possible, avoid using user input to construct system commands. Use secure APIs that perform the required function without shell commands.
Implement a strong system of privileges, ensuring processes run with the least necessary privilege. Keep software up-to-date, patching regularly to fix known vulnerabilities. By adopting these practices, you strengthen your application’s defenses, making it harder for attackers to exploit.
Conclusion
Protecting our online spaces from constantly changing cyber threats may seem challenging. But with the right knowledge and tools, it becomes more manageable. Still, mitigating these threats is not a one-time process; it requires continuous learning, alertness, and improvement.
Here, there’s a solution that combines strong defense measures and also improves your website performance. Go to Arvancloud WAF and check our CDN with effective firewall security features.
These top-tier security services ensure the privacy of your confidential data, guarding it against DDoS attacks, with features like HSTS Protocol support, Access Control, and Rate Limit. Reach out to Arvancloud and fortify your web applications while enjoying seamless and secure digital experiences.
