XML External Entity (XXE)-Injection is a type of attack targeting XML processing vulnerabilities in applications. In an XXE attack, an attacker attempts to introduce malicious external entities into XML documents and persuade the application to process these entities. This can lead to security issues, including theft of sensitive data, remote code execution, or denial of services.
Here's a basic explanation of how an XXE attack works:
An attacker manipulates an XML document being processed by the targeted application by inserting malicious external entities into the document. An external entity is a reference to an external resource typically defined in a Document Type Definition (DTD) or XML Schema.
The attacker attempts to coax the application into processing the malicious external entities, for example, by sending a specially crafted HTTP request or XML data to the application.
When the application processes the malicious external entities, it can have various effects, including accessing sensitive files or data on the server, executing remote code, or denying services.
A typical example of an XXE attack is stealing sensitive files, such as the contents of configuration files or password files on the server. Through clever manipulation of the XML document, an attacker can persuade the application to disclose the contents of these files.
To protect against XXE attacks, developers need to carefully examine how XML data is processed in their applications. They should ensure they use secure XML parsers, disable external entities, avoid using XML data directly in conjunction with confidential files or data, and thoroughly validate and filter incoming XML data to remove unwanted entities. Enabling XML schema validation and using Content Security Policies can also help prevent XXE attacks. It's also important for administrators to regularly audit their systems and applications for known XXE vulnerabilities and install security updates to minimize potential attack vectors.
Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is a type of cyberattack where an attacker secretly performs actions on a web page in the name of an authenticated user. This is achieved by tricking the user's browser into sending unintended requests to another website or web application where the user is already logged in. The goal of a CSRF attack is to execute actions within the context of the authenticated user without the user's intent.
Here's a typical process in a CSRF attack:
The attacker creates a fake website or a malicious link that triggers an action on the target website.
The user who is lured into the fake website or clicks on the malicious link is already logged into the target website.
The fake website or the malicious link sends a request to the target website to perform an unwanted action on behalf of the user. This could include changing the password, initiating money transfers, or posting content on social media.
Since the request is received by the target website as an authenticated user, the website executes the request without realizing it's an attack.
CSRF attacks are particularly dangerous when the target website allows confidential or sensitive actions without requiring additional user authentication steps or confirmations. To protect against CSRF attacks, website developers can implement measures like CSRF token checks, where each request is verified to include a valid CSRF token. Users can also protect themselves by logging out when leaving a website and ensuring they don't open untrusted links or websites. Modern web browsers also have built-in safeguards against CSRF attacks.