What is Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) and How Can It Hurt You?
What exactly is cross-site scripting? This is an internet security vulnerability that allows remote users to read and write code on websites they are not authorized. XSS allows attackers to inject userside scripts into pages that are often viewed by authorized people. An XSS vulnerability can be used by hackers to bypass secure access controls on websites such as the Same Origin Policy (SOP) and Same Origin Cookie.
When a user clicks an advertisement or links on another website, the browser sends a HTML request to the server to get the required data. However, JavaScript programs running in the server do not check if the provided data is truly appropriate before executing it. When a user browses through the site and gets directed to some HTML pages that he/she is not familiar with, a cross-site scripting attack occurs. This HTML can be used by the attacker to install malicious code on the victim’s machine.
FTP administrators can deny access at any time to normal FTP accounts. If an unauthorized site is found in the list, the FTP administrator can either close down the account or modify the settings so that the attacker cannot gain access to the server. But, an attacker who is using a malicious program will be able bypass these security measures. Thus, a user who has been redirected to an unauthorized site through a cross-site scripting attack has the threat of getting his/her computer infected with a harmful virus or worm.
FTP is only one option. An intruder could also enter your network via HTTP, HTTP, and TCP/IP. You are more susceptible to web vulnerabilities if your system doesn’t support these protocols. Cross-site scripting is the most popular method using IMSS. You could easily be affected if the attacker sends a malicious message in an IMSS. You could also be affected if an attacker sends you an IMSS message containing a request for HTTP.
A firewall or application well-designed can reduce the danger posed by these scripts but it is unlikely that they will be completely stopped. A well-written application can prevent scripting on all the web sites that you have access to. However, an unpatched FTP or IMSS can allow an intruder to send his/her own code on any web page accessible to you. Even though you can block reflected XSS attacks with your firewall, they may still occur at random.
Your website must be protected to reduce the possibility of attacks. When you create a new account, it is important to use a user name as well as a password. Additionally, you should change your IP address when you visit malicious websites. Additionally, you should not view pages in your browser with “eval”, and make sure to upgrade your operating system before visiting any website.
However, if it seems that you are under attack you should seek to identify the source. A hacker may send you a JavaScript instead of a simple HTML page. Sometimes hackers may even install keyloggers on your computer that can log all your activity. These messages may seem innocuous to you, but they can be dangerous as they can access your personal information (such passwords and credit card numbers). If you do not pay attention to these messages, you may end up having the malicious script installed on your computer, and that will allow the hacker to use your system for illegal activities.
You should take protective actions in order to protect your identity. For example, you should install an effective anti-virus program and run a full scan on your system on regular basis. You should also remove applications that may be infected by spyware or other harmful software. Even if you have an encryption layer on your web browser, cross-site scripts can still be used to attack web pages. This is especially true if the security configuration is poor. If you take the necessary precautions you can defend yourself against malicious codes and stop them from stealing your identity.