Identifying and Mitigating Security Vulnerabilities in Web Applications

Abstract

As web applications continue to play a critical role in modern digital infrastructure, their security has become a major concern. This article explores the most common types of security vulnerabilities in web applications, including SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), cross-site request forgery (CSRF), and broken authentication. It further outlines various techniques for identifying and mitigating these vulnerabilities, such as input validation, secure coding practices, use of security headers, and implementation of secure authentication mechanisms. The paper also emphasizes the importance of adopting a secure software development lifecycle (SSDLC), updating third-party components, and fostering security awareness among developers. By applying a combination of proactive strategies, organizations can effectively reduce risks, protect sensitive data, and maintain the integrity of their web-based services.