There are a variety of ways attackers could target web applications (websites that allow you to connect directly to software through a browser) to steal confidential information, introduce malicious codes, or even take over your computer. These attacks exploit weaknesses in components like web applications or content-management systems, as well as web servers.

Web app attacks comprise a large percentage of all security threats. In the past decade, attackers have honed their skills in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities that impact security perimeters for applications. Attackers can circumvent the all common defenses using methods like botnets, phishing and social engineering.

Phishing attacks trick victims into clicking on an email link that contains malware. This malware is downloaded onto their computer, allowing attackers to steal systems or website link devices for different purposes. Botnets are networks of compromised and infected devices, that attackers use to launch DDoS attacks, spread malware, perpetuate ad fraud, and more.

Directory (or path) traversal attacks leverage patterns of movement to gain access to the files on a website, its configuration files and databases. To defend against this type of attack requires proper input sanitization.

SQL injection attacks seek to attack the database that stores crucial information about websites and services by injecting malicious code that allow it to bypass and reveal information that it would not normally disclose. Attackers can execute commands, dump database information and more.

Cross-site scripting (or XSS) attacks insert malicious code inside a trusted site to take over browsers of users. This enables attackers to take session cookies and sensitive information as well as impersonate users, alter content, and much more.