A web application is a software program that runs on a web server, usually accessed by users through a web browser over the Internet. Common web applications include webmail, online retail sales, online auctions, wikis, and blogs.
Web applications are created using a combination of server-side scripting, client-side scripting, database technology, and web design. Server-side scripting is used to create the back-end functionality of the web application, while client-side scripting is used to create the front-end user interface. Database technology is used to store and retrieve data for the web application, while web design is used to create the overall look and feel of the application.
Web applications are popular because they are easy to use and can be accessed from anywhere in the world. They are also relatively easy to develop and deploy, compared to other types of software applications.
Web applications are constantly threatened by cyber attacks.
We compiled top 15 security best practices below:
1. Injection flaws are one of the most common web application security vulnerabilities. SQL, LDAP, and XPath are all examples of injection flaws. Injection flaws occur when untrusted user input is used to change the execution of a program.
To prevent injection flaws, never use untrusted user input in SQL or LDAP queries. Always use parameterized queries or stored procedures instead.
2. Cross-site scripting (XSS) flaws are another common web application security vulnerability. XSS flaws occur when untrusted user input is used to change the execution of a program.
To prevent XSS flaws, never use untrusted user input in the browser. Always use input validation and output encoding.
3. Broken authentication and session management is a common security issue. Broken authentication and session management flaws occur when an application does not properly handle authentication and session management.
To prevent broken authentication and session management flaws, never store sensitive information in cookies or session IDs. Use strong authentication and session management controls.
4. Insufficient logging and monitoring is a security issue that is often overlooked. Insufficient logging and monitoring can prevent an organization from detecting and responding to security incidents in a timely manner.
To prevent insufficient logging and monitoring, always collect and monitor logs from all systems. Use a centralized log management system to make logs easier to review and search.
5. Insecure communications is a security issue that can occur when an application uses outdated or unsalted encryption methods.
To prevent insecure communications, always use up-to-date encryption methods. Use strong cryptographic algorithms and keys.
6. Broken access controls is a security issue that can occur when an application does not properly enforce access controls.
To prevent broken access controls, always enforce least privilege. Use role-based access control to restrict access to sensitive data and functions.
7. Security misconfiguration is a security issue that can occur when an application is not properly configured.
To prevent security misconfiguration, always follow security best practices when configuring systems and applications. Use automated configuration tools to help ensure that systems are properly configured.
8. Unvalidated and untested inputs is a security issue that can occur when an application does not properly validate or test user input.
To prevent unvalidated and untested inputs, always validate and test user input. Use positive and negative input validation. Perform security testing during development and before deploying applications.
9. Insufficient security controls is a security issue that can occur when an organization does not have adequate security controls in place.
To prevent insufficient security controls, always implement security controls commensurate with the risk of the data and systems. Use a risk-based approach to security.
10. Poor software design is a security issue that can occur when an application is not designed with security in mind.
To prevent poor software design, always design applications with security in mind. Use security design patterns and principles.
11. Lack of security awareness is a security issue that can occur when employees are not properly trained on security policies and procedures.
To prevent a lack of security awareness, always train employees on security policies and procedures. Use security awareness training programs.
12. Third-party software vulnerabilities is a security issue that can occur when an organization uses third-party software that has known vulnerabilities.
To prevent third-party software vulnerabilities, always vet third-party software before using it. Use only trusted and reputable sources for third-party software.
13. Malicious insiders is a security issue that can occur when an organization has employees who are malicious or who inadvertently introduce security risks.
To prevent malicious insiders, always screen employees before hiring them. Use background checks and reference checks.
14. Denial of service is a security issue that can occur when an attacker attempts to make a system or application unavailable.
To prevent denial of service, always have adequate security controls in place. Use rate limiting and access control mechanisms.
15. Physical security is a security issue that can occur when an organization does not have proper physical security controls in place.
To prevent physical security risks, always have proper physical security controls in place. Use security cameras, access control systems, and alarm systems.
