Web applications are pervasive today. That means even your website might be a threat if you’re running WordPress or any other website-building platform. A single XSS vulnerability can easily target millions of websites.
What is a Cross-site Scripting Attack?
A cross-site scripting, or XSS attack, is when cybercriminals inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts can do various things, like steal visitor data, run browser-based exploits, or even deface a website.
XSS attacks leverage security vulnerabilities that sometimes occur in web applications. They often target well-known applications due to the potential for widespread damage. However, XSS attacks have also been used against specific entities like governments.
In a nutshell, XSS attacks can:
- Steal data
- Deface websites
- Redirect users
Notable XSS Statistics and Incidents in Malaysia
Due to the scope of XSS attacks, it is often challenging to pinpoint individual Malaysian cases unless they come under global scrutiny. Many global XSS attacks have occurred, especially on the WordPress platform.
Known XSS attack incidents:
- In 2022, Malaysia’s National Cyber Coordination and Command Centre released an alert of several XSS vulnerabilities that affected the Citrix ADC application. The vulnerability potentially exposed session tokens, even without user interaction.
- TikTok, a China-based web application popular in Malaysia, was detected to have an XSS vulnerability in one of its subdomains.
- XSS vulnerabilities were the most prevalent among all WordPress vulnerabilities discovered in 2021. Over 54% of discovered vulnerabilities were XSS.
How to Protect Yourself From XSS Attacks
Many of us use the same applications as others worldwide. That means we’re not insulated from global threats even with localized businesses. Thankfully, addressing many of these threats is more a matter of awareness other than cost.
Chong Yat Chin
CallNet Solution Managing Director
The approach to defense against XSS vulnerabilities depends on your use of web applications. The most common scenario for Malaysia would be using a generic web application with customization options.
Here are some ways you can fortify your defenses against XSS attacks:
- Use Secure Web Frameworks: Most have built-in security features that help prevent XSS. For example, consider whether they can automatically handle data sanitization and output encoding.
- Limit Customizations and Plugins: Many businesses tend to over-customize their web applications. Remember that the more plugins you introduce, the higher your vulnerability levels.
- Content Security Policy: Implement a browser-side security policy that helps prevent XSS attacks. This gives you more control over what resources are allowed to load. That control helps prevent unauthorized script execution.
- Regular Software Updates: The cheapest defense for a business is to always keep software patched and updated. Remember that this applies to endpoint devices like PCs and your CMS, frameworks, and more.
- Web Application Firewalls: A WAF acts as a shield between your website and the internet, helping block potential XSS attacks. Cloud-based WAF services can be easy to manage and cost-effective.
- Security Audits: XSS attacks can be a bit much for small IT departments to mitigate. Do contract professional security companies to audit your website for vulnerabilities, including XSS.
- Regular Backups: Regular backups should always be part of your business continuity process. These ensure you can quickly restore your website in case of an attack. Don’t just dump files onto a spare hard drive – speak to a professional.
Cross-site Scripting for Businesses & Large Enterprises
Defending against XSS vulnerabilities and attacks can be a full-time job. Thousands of web applications may have several vulnerabilities at any given time. Because of this, most businesses find it impossible to cope.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom. Take proactive measures to ensure that your business and customers are safe. Have professionals assess your web applications, keep things updated, and ensure your backup and recovery options are in place.
Don’t put your business reputation at risk. We can help you plug the loopholes and ensure a safe ecosystem for your customers to thrive in.
