More and more hacks are aimed at security flaws in particular applications (as opposed to being aimed at flaws in the network security). One reason is that more applications are now available over the Web, which is a nice access point not only for legitimate customers but also for hackers. Many application-layer attacks are aimed at certain well-known (but unfortunately still common) types of coding errors pertaining to the way Web applications process input from Web site visitors. A simple e-commerce application typically asks users for various kinds of information – password, address, et cetera; however, if the application doesn’t include appropriate safeguards, hackers can try to use those input fields to pass malicious instructions to the host computer. Specific types of application-level attacks include Cross-Site Scripting and SQL Injection. Related content feature Top cybersecurity M&A deals for 2023 Fears of recession, rising interest rates, mass tech layoffs, and conservative spending trends are likely to make dealmakers cautious, but an ever-increasing need to defend against bigger and faster attacks will likely keep M&A activity steady in By CSO Staff Sep 22, 2023 24 mins Mergers and Acquisitions Mergers and Acquisitions Mergers and Acquisitions brandpost Unmasking ransomware threat clusters: Why it matters to defenders Similar patterns of behavior among ransomware treat groups can help security teams better understand and prepare for attacks By Joan Goodchild Sep 21, 2023 3 mins Cybercrime news analysis China’s offensive cyber operations support “soft power” agenda in Africa Researchers track Chinese cyber espionage intrusions targeting African industrial sectors. By Michael Hill Sep 21, 2023 5 mins Advanced Persistent Threats Cyberattacks Critical Infrastructure brandpost Proactive OT security requires visibility + prevention You cannot protect your operation by simply watching and waiting. It is essential to have a defense-in-depth approach. By Austen Byers Sep 21, 2023 4 mins Security Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe