Web Security Considerations

Web Security deals with the security of data over the internet/network or web while it is being transferred to the internet. Websites are always prone to security threats/risks. Hacking of Website may result in theft of important Customer Data.

Security attacks are mainly aimed at stealing altering or destroying a piece of personal and confidential information, stealing the hard drive space, illegally accessing passwords.

Security Consideration:

• Updated Software: It is mandatory to keep your software updated, It plays an important role in keeping your personal data secure. Hackers may be aware of vulnerabilities in certain software, which are sometimes caused by bugs and can be used to damage your computer system and steal personal data. Older versions of software can become a gateway for hackers to enter your network. There is a need to always update software which will fix vulnerable or exposed areas.

• Beware of SQL Injection: SQL Injection is an attempt to manipulate your data or your database by inserting a rough code into your query. One should be aware of the SQL injection attack.

• Cross-Site Scripting (XSS): XSS allows the attackers to insert client-side script into web pages. It is a term used to describe a class of attacks that allow an attacker to inject client-side scripts into other users’ browsers through a website. As the injected code enters the browser from the site, the code is reliable and can do things like sending the user’s site authorization cookie to the attacker.

• Error Messages: Error messages are generated to give the information to the users while users access the website and some error messages are generated due to one or another reason. Provider should be very careful while providing the information to the users. For example a login attempt fails the error message should not let the user know which field is incorrect: Username or Password.

• Data Validation:  Validation of data should be performed on both server-side and client-side. Data validation should occur when data is received from an outside party, especially if the data is from untrusted sources.

• Password: Password provides the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your device and personal information. Hackers in many cases use sophisticated software that uses brute force to crack passwords. Passwords must be complex to protect against brute force. It is good to enforce password requirements such as a minimum of eight characters long must including uppercase letters, lowercase letters, special characters, and numerals.