Notable OWASP TOP 10 for Web Applications.

OWASP, or the Open Web Application Security Project, is a non-profit organization that aims to improve the security of software and the web. One of their most well-known initiatives is the OWASP Top 10, a list of the most common and most critical web application security risks. The OWASP Top 10 is regularly updated to reflect the current state of the threat landscape and to provide guidance on how to address these risks.

Here is an overview of the OWASP Top 10 for web applications:

1. Injection: This occurs when an attacker is able to send malicious code to a web application, which is then executed by the application or the underlying database. Examples include SQL injection, where malicious SQL code is injected into a database query, and cross-site scripting (XSS), where malicious JavaScript code is injected into a web page.

2. Broken authentication and session management: This risk occurs when an attacker is able to gain unauthorized access to a user's account or to manipulate the session data of a user. This can be due to weak passwords, lack of proper authentication controls, or vulnerabilities in the session management system.

3. Cross-site request forgery (CSRF): This type of attack involves tricking a user into making an unintended request to a web application, such as changing their password or transferring money. It can occur when a user is logged into a vulnerable web application and visits a malicious website.

4. Insecure direct object references: This risk occurs when an attacker is able to access an object, such as a file or database record, directly by manipulating the reference to it. This can occur if an application does not properly check permissions or if it exposes object references in the URL.

5. Security misconfiguration: This risk occurs when a web application is not properly configured and secured, making it vulnerable to attacks. Examples include leaving default accounts or directories open, using weak passwords, or failing to update the application with security patches.

6. Sensitive data exposure: This risk occurs when sensitive data, such as passwords or financial information, is not properly protected or encrypted. This can occur due to weak encryption algorithms, lack of proper transport layer protection, or lack of proper data handling practices.

7. Cross-origin resource sharing (CORS) misconfiguration: This risk occurs when a web application allows cross-origin requests that should not be allowed. This can allow attackers to access sensitive data or to perform actions on behalf of the user.

8. Failure to restrict URL access: This risk occurs when an application does not properly restrict access to sensitive URLs or functions. This can allow an attacker to access or manipulate sensitive data or functions.

9. Using components with known vulnerabilities: This risk occurs when a web application uses third-party components, such as libraries or frameworks, that have known vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities can then be exploited by attackers.

10. Insufficient logging and monitoring: This risk occurs when an application does not properly log and monitor activity, making it difficult to detect and respond to attacks.

It is important for organizations to regularly assess their web applications for these risks and to implement appropriate controls to mitigate them. This can include activities such as performing regular security testing, implementing secure coding practices, and properly configuring and maintaining the application and its components. By addressing these risks, organizations can improve the security of their web applications and protect their users and data from potential attacks.