Description: A web vulnerability is a weakness in a web application that can be exploited by attackers to compromise information security, access sensitive data, or disrupt service functionality. These vulnerabilities can arise from coding errors, misconfigurations, or flaws in application logic. The main characteristics of web vulnerabilities include their ability to enable attacks such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and cross-site request forgery (CSRF). The relevance of these vulnerabilities lies in the increasing use of web applications across various sectors, making them an attractive target for cybercriminals. Security orchestration, automation, and response are essential to mitigate these risks, as they enable organizations to efficiently detect, analyze, and respond to threats, thereby protecting their digital assets and user information.
History: Web vulnerabilities began to be recognized in the late 1990s as the use of the Internet and web applications rapidly expanded. One of the first notable incidents was the ‘Code Red’ attack in 2001, which exploited vulnerabilities in various web servers. As technology advanced, so did attack techniques, leading to the creation of security standards such as the OWASP Top Ten, which identifies the most critical vulnerabilities in web applications.
Uses: Web vulnerabilities are primarily used to identify and mitigate risks in online applications. Developers and security teams employ scanning tools and penetration testing to detect these weaknesses before they can be exploited. Additionally, organizations use security frameworks and best practices to secure their applications and protect user information.
Examples: An example of a web vulnerability is SQL injection, where an attacker can insert malicious SQL code into a query, allowing unauthorized access to the database. Another case is cross-site scripting (XSS), which allows an attacker to inject scripts into web pages viewed by other users, compromising their personal information.
