In last week’s blog, we delved into the different specializations that cybersecurity is separated into, and briefly mentioned Application Security. This is akin to discussing Star Wars, mentioning the Jedi, and then never explaining what Jedi do. Rest assured, there’s enlightenment ahead. So, what is Application Security?
Application security is, in its simplest form, exactly what it sounds like. It focuses on protecting software applications from outside attack. This isn’t something that involves employee passwords or storage; this field centers on applications themselves. Application vulnerabilities can be exploited by hackers to gain unauthorized access to data, steal sensitive information, or disrupt operations.
As this is a “back to basics” blog, we’re not going to delve too in-depth into the types of vulnerabilities, but here are a few.
Injection flaws: Injection flaws occur when untrusted data is injected into an application, such as through a web form or a database query. This can allow attackers to execute malicious code on the application server.
Cross-site scripting: XSS vulnerabilities allow attackers to inject malicious code into a web page that is then executed by the victim’s browser. This can be used to steal cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information.
Broken authentication and session management: These vulnerabilities allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to an application by exploiting weaknesses in the authentication process or session management.
Sensitive data exposure: This occurs when sensitive data, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or social security numbers, is not properly protected. This can allow attackers to steal this data and use it for malicious purposes.
“Applications are being targeted more than ever,” says MacguyverTech CEO Steve (Mac) McKeon. “One of the biggest flaws we’ve found in app security is faulty coding. Using coding best practices is instrumental in keeping your apps secure.”
In addition to secure coding practices, security controls, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and data loss prevention (DLP) solutions should be deployed to protect your applications from attack. This not only helps secure your applications, but also your network.
Lastly, as we’ve suggested frequently, a Persistent Vulnerability Assessment (PVA) should be explored as an impartial, third-party checkup of applications on a regular basis. A PVA is specifically designed to seek out vulnerabilities in your apps and network so they can be fixed before hackers exploit them.
“Our PVA is designed with application security in mind,” says McKeon. “It’s one thing for your own programmers to look for vulnerabilities in their own work. It’s another thing entirely for a third party to scan your application like a hacker would, trying to find ways in to compromise your data.”
And as the Jedi would tell you, it’s better to find out from a friend that your temple isn’t secure than to find it out from a Sith.
For more information about Jedi, hacking, and all things cybersecurity, visit the MacguyverTech home page.
For more information about MacguyverTech’s PVA services, visit the PVA page.
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