The OWASP Top 10 is a list of the most common web application security risks, as determined by the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP). The list is updated every three to four years and is widely used as a reference by developers, security professionals, and organizations as a way to prioritize their web application security efforts.
The current version of the OWASP Top 10, released in 2021, includes the following risks:
- Injection: This occurs when an attacker is able to execute arbitrary code or commands by injecting them into a web application. This can be done through SQL injection, OS command injection, or other types of injection attacks.
- Broken authentication and session management: This occurs when an attacker is able to gain unauthorized access to a web application by exploiting weaknesses in the authentication and session management process.
- Cross-site scripting (XSS): This occurs when an attacker is able to inject malicious code into a web application, which is then executed by a victim’s browser.
- Insecure direct object references: This occurs when a web application exposes sensitive objects, such as files or database records, without proper authorization checks.
- Security misconfiguration: This occurs when a web application is not properly configured, which can lead to vulnerabilities such as insecure default settings or weak passwords.
- Sensitive data exposure: This occurs when a web application stores or transmits sensitive data, such as passwords or credit card numbers, in an insecure manner.
- Cross-site request forgery (CSRF): This occurs when an attacker is able to trick a victim into making unintended actions on a web application, such as transferring funds or changing settings.
- Using components with known vulnerabilities: This occurs when a web application uses third-party components, such as libraries or frameworks, that have known vulnerabilities.
- Insufficient logging and monitoring: This occurs when a web application does not have sufficient logging and monitoring in place, which can make it difficult to detect and respond to security incidents.
- Unvalidated inputs: This occurs when a web application does not properly validate user input, which can allow an attacker to inject malicious data and potentially compromise the application.
The OWASP Top 10 is a widely-referenced list of the most common web application security risks. It is designed to help developers, security professionals, and organizations prioritize their efforts to secure their web applications.
To learn more about the OWASP Top 10, please click here.
