Defending web and mobile applications against attackers requires a multi-layered approach and continuous vigilance.

1. Secure Coding Practices

• Validate Input: Always validate and sanitize input data to prevent SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks.
• Use Parameterized Queries: Implement prepared statements for all database queries.
• Employ Whitelisting: Use whitelists to control acceptable input data formats.

2. Authentication and Authorization

• Implement Strong Password Policies: Require complex passwords and periodic changes.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Require an additional layer of security beyond passwords.
• Access Control: Restrict user access based on roles and minimize permissions.

3. Secure Communication

• Use HTTPS: Secure all communications between users and your application using TLS.
• Encrypt Sensitive Data: Encrypt data at rest and in transit to prevent unauthorized access.

4. Regular Security Audits and Testing

• Conduct Regular Code Reviews: Identify vulnerabilities through peer review.
• Implement Penetration Testing: Simulate attacks to probe for security weaknesses.
• Use Automated Tools: Utilize security scanning tools to find vulnerabilities in your applications.

5. Threat Monitoring and Incident Response

• Log Activity: Maintain logs of user activity to identify suspicious behavior.
• Set Up Alerts: Create alerts for unusual activities or attempts to breach security.
• Develop an Incident Response Plan: Prepare a strategy for responding to security incidents and breaches.

6. Educating and Training Staff

• Regular Training: Provide security awareness training for your development staff.
• Phishing Awareness: Educate users on recognizing phishing attempts.

7. Keeping Software Updated

• Patch Management: Regularly update applications and frameworks to their latest versions.
• Use Known Libraries: Rely on established libraries and frameworks that are actively maintained.

Table of Common Web Vulnerabilities

Mind Map of Security Best Practices

• Secure Coding Practices
  • Input Handling
  • Parameterized Queries
• Authentication & Authorization
  • Password Policies
  • MFA
• Secure Communication
• Regular Testing
• Threat Monitoring
• Staff Education
• Software Updates

Statistics on Security Vulnerabilities