Website security is one of the most important issues. The OWASP organization annually publishes a list of the 10 most common website security vulnerabilities to warn and guide units to improve their protection systems. In this article, we will learn together about OWASP, the top 10 common website security vulnerabilities in 2023 according to OWASP and how to prevent them.

What is OWASP?

OWASP, short for Open Web Application Security Project, is an international non-profit organization dedicated to improving software security. The organization provides free resources, including security tools and standards, to help individuals develop, procure, and maintain more secure web applications.

In addition, OWASP organizes workshops, conferences, and research projects to promote knowledge about web application security. They also offer training and certification courses for cybersecurity professionals. OWASP’s contribution to the cybersecurity community is undeniable.

See more: What is website security vulnerabilities

10 common website security vulnerabilities 2023

Website security vulnerabilities are weaknesses in the design or configuration of a website that can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to data or systems. Below is a list of the top most common website security vulnerabilities in 2023, according to the OWASP 2023 Top 10 standards:

Injection Vulnerability (Malicious code injection error)

This is one of the most common and dangerous security vulnerabilities. It allows attackers to insert malicious code into web application input fields to execute unwanted commands.

Broken Authentication

This vulnerability occurs when user authentication on a website is not performed securely. An attacker can steal a user’s login information or session.

Cross Site Scripting (XSS) Vulnerability

XSS allows attackers to insert script code into a website. This leads to controlling the content displayed on the user’s browser or stealing cookie information.

Insecure Direct Object References

This vulnerability occurs when a web application allows direct access to objects without sufficient access permission checks, thereby leading to disclosure of sensitive information or unauthorized data alteration.

Security Misconfiguration

Poor security configuration can allow attackers to exploit various security vulnerabilities. From accessing configuration files, databases, to executing malicious code.

Sensitive data exposure (Sensitive data leak)

This is a vulnerability of not adequately securing sensitive data. Such as personal information and payment information, leading to the leak of this information.

Missing function level access control (permission error)

When the application does not strictly control access to functions according to each user level. An attacker could exploit it to access unauthorized functions.

Cross Site Request Forgery (CSRF)

CSRF is a type of attack in which an attacker can trick a user into sending a fake request to a web application. This causes unwanted behaviors such as changing personal information or sending payment requests.

Using component with known vulnerabilities

Attempting to use software components with known security vulnerabilities that are not patched can increase the risk of attack. So this is something that website users need to pay attention to.

Unvalidated redirects and forwards

This vulnerability is where the web application redirects users to another URL without checking its validity. As such, attackers can use this to redirect users to phishing or malicious websites.

This lead you to learn more on How to secure your website? Or if you have a e-commerce website? Read our post about Critical security issues in e-commerce

Evaluate your website security with an expert from Kounselly!

In today’s digital age, website security is an indispensable factor to ensure that customers’ personal information and data are safe. Kounselly, with a team of leading experts in the field of cybersecurity, is ready to help you evaluate and enhance the security of your website.

Starting from analyzing and evaluating existing security vulnerabilities, we will provide you with an overview of the website’s security status. Sign up for an account, find a suitable service or create a simple job request with Kounselly!

See more: Respond to cybersecurity incidents for businesses and startups