Web applications have a wide range of vulnerabilities, and in a world that runs on technology, these weaknesses can significantly impact your operations. Issues like outdated software and broken authentication can result in massive damages, including breach of access, stolen data, and service disruptions.
Discovering and addressing application vulnerabilities benefits every team, large or small. In this guide, learn the most common security weaknesses and the best ways to handle them.
Vulnerable apps: Meaning and Examples
A web app vulnerability is a weakness that makes software susceptible to attacks. Bad actors exploit these flaws to steal data, gain unauthorized access, and disrupt operations.
These attacks can be disastrous. The global average data breach cost $4.88 million in 2024, which is a 10% increase from 2023. These security gaps can lead to massive financial losses and workflow disruptions. They also impact consumer trust and loyalty.
Vulnerabilities often come from missing security controls or coding errors. For instance, an attacker may use brute force to enter a system without a pre-established login attempt limit. This means that teams can prevent and mitigate these weaknesses—they just need the right know-how.
Why Is Web Application Security Important?
Most companies run on applications, from word processors to customer management platforms. These apps store sensitive information, manage consumer data, and streamline vital workflows. This means that even a small security gap could lead to a damaging breach and operational delays.
Internally, security attacks can have a range of effects, from interrupting daily work to causing detrimental setbacks. However, it can be even worse for companies that provide applications directly to customers, and breaches may result in stolen personal data and irreparable reputational damage.
Vulnerability management protects daily operations and long-term organizational health. This practice keeps teams proactive instead of reactive, letting them mitigate risks and address issues early on.
8 Common Types of Web Security Vulnerabilities
Here are the most common application security vulnerabilities to watch out for.
1. SQL Injection Attacks
SQL injection attacks (SQLi) are when a bad actor interferes with application queries and forces them to execute certain commands. This lets attackers modify, view, or delete data they shouldn’t have access to. SQLi can result in unauthorized access and database compromise.
2. Cross-Site Scripting
Cross-site scripting (XSS) is when attackers inject malicious scripts into web pages. This directly affects users who visit the page, often causing credential theft, keystroke capture, and dangerous site redirection.
3. Broken Authentication
Flawed authentication lets attackers bypass logins and gain unauthorized access. This can result from hijacked sessions or predictable “forgotten password” features, though it’s often as simple as exploiting a weak password.
4. XML External Entity Attacks
External entity attacks are when a XML application reads and processes malicious data. Essentially, attackers trick software into performing functions it shouldn’t. Bad actors can use this to leak sensitive information or launch denial-of-service attacks.
5. Insecure Direct Object References
Insecure direct object references are when attackers manipulate access controls, often by changing a user ID in a URL. This happens when an application doesn’t check to verify permissions, letting unauthorized users bypass systems and access internal data.
6. Cross-Site Request Forgery
Cross-site request forgeries tricks a user’s browser into making malicious requests on behalf of an attacker. This exploits the trust that applications have in their uses, making it perform tasks like transferring funds or changing account details.
7. Misconfigurations
These are suboptimal application settings that cause a damaging security gap. For instance, leaving passwords default after implementing new software or providing unnecessary permissions for certain users.
8. Unpatched Software
Applications update for a reason, typically pushing new security safeguards against modern attacks. Neglecting new software patches for extended periods leaves your company open to many of the threats above, including SQLi and XSS.
7 Ways to Protect Against Software Application Vulnerabilities
Here are seven tips and best practices to secure your systems.
1. Implement a Bug Bounty Program
Bug bounty programs hire ethical hackers to identify and exploit application weaknesses. This lets you discover weaknesses through direct, practical methods, mimicking real-world threats as closely as possible. These professionals typically discover issues, then provide details on its potential impact and the steps to reproduce it.
2. Limit Failed Login Attempts
Putting a cap on failed login attempts mitigates brute-force attacks. For example, an app might restrict users to four attempts in a 24 hour period, preventing attackers from trying dozens of username and password combinations. Many businesses combine this tactic with multi-factor authentication to bolster security further.
3. Secure Roles and Authorizations
Consider user permissions carefully, and only allow access to those who need it. The more access you allow, the more opportunities for risks. Many cloud-based systems have in-depth control, letting admins grant specific permissions per role and responsibility. It’s best to conduct a regular audit, checking access controls and revoking unneeded permissions, to maintain tight security.
4. Conduct Penetration Testing
Penetration testing is a popular security methodology that simulates real attacks. Ethical hackers use the same tools and techniques as bad actors to discover web security vulnerabilities and identify the potential damage. While this process is similar to bug bounty hunting, your in-house security team typically conducts penetration testing. Some companies use bug hunters and their own team for a diverse and comprehensive assessment.
5. Enhance Logging and Monitoring
Real-time threat detection flags suspicious activity as soon as it happens, letting your team respond before attackers can cause damage. This might include searching for atypical patterns, like a spike in website traffic, and odd user behavior, like an employee trying to access restricted data.
6. Stay Updated With Patch Management
Outdated applications are a common entry point for breaches—luckily, they’re also one of the easiest fixes. Ensure your team keeps software up to date. Automate patches whenever you can, and for any other time, maintain constant communication throughout your company. Ask employees to download updates, and provide them with specific, step-by-step instructions to make sure nothing slips through the cracks.
7. Scan your Code for Vulnerabilities
Regularly scan your applications for weaknesses—this is a great way to maintain systems between larger practices, like penetration testing and bug hunting. Common scanning methods include static application security testing, dynamic application security testing, and software composition analysis.
Tackle Application Vulnerability With Legit Security
Legit Security is a key player in your application vulnerability management. Monitor systems for risks and conduct security tests automatically, safeguarding your company and ensuring total industry compliance. Plus, Legit Security integrates right into your workflows, so your team can seamlessly collect data from across their tech stack to identify gaps and anomalies.
Book a demo with Legit Security today to proactively protect your company and customers.
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