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Today’s industry is digital-reliant. Any organisation creates a network of physical and software-based components to store, consume and share digital products, services and information from one point to the desired one. Some of the common digital assets used frequently are hardware like data centres, personal computers, digital communication suits etc.

It needs to be understood that with the advancement of data-sharing technology, cyber threats have become an automatic by-product. So, it is essential to protect our digital infrastructure in such a way that the stored or shared data can never be breached or accessed by any third party for whatsoever intent. Organisations are now looking forward to training their key manpower with a suitable cybersecurity course containing the most modern remedies for cyber-attacks. 

Digital Infrastructure and Cyber Security

Digital infrastructure and cyber security are connected like two sides of the same coin. Digital infrastructure comprises the software and the hardware ecosystems that transfer data and establish intra-system and inter-system communication. Any digital transaction owes the risk of cyber threats like hacks, viruses, malware, spurious software etc. and needs to be protected. That is where the role of cyber security comes to play.  

A collective body of processes, practices and technology that aims to protect the programs, networks, servers, devices and data of an organisation from unauthorised access, damage, attack or theft is known as cybersecurity. 

Basic Terminology of Cybersecurity

Beginners to the subject must understand the following terms for a holistic grip on the subject. The most commonly used terms are as follows:

Internet Protocol (IP) address 

An IP address is a unique hardware identification number. Different computers and other devices either over the intranet or the internet, may communicate within the usage of these numbers.

Virtual Private Network (VPN) 

VPN is an additional security service over secured WiFi. The purpose is to provide an additional layer of protection to an IP address by making their online activities virtually untraceable by cyber criminals and other snoopers who tend to outwit users by luring them to click on malicious links. Thus, VPN prevents both loss of money and data.

Firewall 

This is the first guard in data screening both for incoming and outgoing network traffic. In other words, a Firewall acts as a wall between the primary or basic internet and an organisation’s private internal internet. A firewall obstructs any seemingly harmful element and obstructs an internal user from sending sensitive information to the outside world.

World Wide Web (WWW) 

It is the elaborate order menu or exhaustive catalogue of all web addresses available across the world internet.

Uniform Resource Locator (URL) 

A unique identifier applied to locate the desired resources on the internet is known as a URL. It is also named a web address.

Domain Name Server (DNS) 

Domain Name Server acts as a virtual phone book of the internet. Its job is to convert the web address or URL of a resource to its numeric IP address.

Encryption and Decryption 

When plain text is converted into code format using a ciphertext algorithm, the process is known as encryption. Decryption is the process of reverse engineering i.e. converting codes into readable texts.

Encryption Key 

This key is a tool that decrypts encrypted data. These keys are unique for specific encryption codes.   

Authentication 

This is a standard procedure of digitally identifying or recognising a person and ensuring that he or she has access to the concerned files or data. Generally, password, finger scan or retina scan are the tools, used either in standalone mode or in combination.

Botnet 

This word is derived from robot and network and refers to a series of devices or computers which have been already hacked and working as per the hacker’s command.       

Rootkit 

It is a collection of software aimed to control and operate a user’s computer. Though this tool aims to provide remote technical support to its users, hackers may also use this tool with evil intentions.

Types of Cybersecurity

Depending on the various applications adapted by the organisation to fulfil different goals, the types of cybersecurity also differ. They are as follows:

Endpoint security 

Remote data storage may be vulnerable since they may be accessed by criminals as well. Endpoint security measures protect remote data stored by VPNs, Firewalls and other modern tools.

Identity management

With this tool, data is made available to the authorised user/s only, thus minimising the risk of leakage or fraud.

Application security 

Cell phone apps have become a common usage platform for many consumers. Thus, Apple and Google fortify Apple Store and Google Play respectively with apt cybersecurity methods. Most of the apps available in these two platforms are end-to-end encrypted for the user data.  

Data security 

Encryption, access controls, data classifications and data loss prevention methods are some of the usual techniques deployed to make data secure.

Cloud Security 

Nowadays many organisations prefer to store their data in clouds or remote third-party servers or cloud providers like One Drive and Google Clouds. This necessitates using secure cloud protection systems.  

Data infrastructure security 

Physical infrastructure housing the database also needs to be protected from attack or theft.

Mobile security 

In today’s world, many activities may be performed by a few clicks on the mobile phone. Banking transactions or UPI payments are widely used. These transactions are protected by using suitable security systems. Furthermore, a data backup system helps to retrieve data in case of damage, theft or device malfunction.

Disaster recovery services 

This is another data security response system or data assurance when the infrastructure gets damaged by natural calamities like fire, flood, tornado or hurricane. 

IoT security 

With plenty of devices connected to a server or a specific network, it is important to secure the transmission of data every time. Sometimes connected devices are left with factory-set passwords, which are easy guess and to crack. This security adapts prevention techniques from these lapses keeping the network secure.

Intrusion detection system 

A fortified security system must contain this tool built to alert the key cyber security personnel of the organisation (through a mail or text message) when the system is breached. The purpose is to stop further damage and work towards resolution.   

Four Pillars of Cyber Security

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has provided voluminous guidelines and protocols for digital data protection. Accordingly, the four pillars of cyber security are as follows:

Prevention 

Going by the proverb that prevention is better than cure, the implementation of intrusion detection systems, firewalls and access controls prevents unauthorised usage.

Detection 

This is the process of locating loopholes in the network/system by utilisation of advanced security tools and technologies.

Response 

This is the process of developing incident-based tailor-made response plans and procedures to address security lapses.

Recovery 

This is the concluding and the most important functional pillar. The system must be restored to its original functionality and integrity.   

CIA Triad in Cybersecurity

For any organisation, it is important to follow these three principles in a cybersecurity system:

Confidentiality 

This principle ensures that only intended or authorised users have viewing access to information or data.

Integrity 

This principle ensures that only authorised users or systems can add, delete or change data in the system.

Availability 

In addition to the above-mentioned principles, the principle of availability ensures that the data may be made available to individuals or teams on demand based on the service benchmark or an agreement to this effect.

Cyber Threats

Cyber-attacks are carried out for some pre-determined and specific purposes:

• To ask for a hefty sum of money instead of restoring the IT infrastructure to its original mode.
• To spy on network systems and steal data, either for personal benefit or to stay ahead of rivals.
• To fructify a financial fraud attempt.
• To jeopardise the political or socio-economic stature of a nation.
• To neutralise enemy defence systems when two or multiple nations are at war.

Before moving on to measures taken to prevent the digital infrastructure, let us identify the nature of cyber threats. They are as follows – 

Malware 

It is malicious software created with the intent to harm a personal computer, system or server. Ransomware, trojan, spyware, rootkits etc. are some of the most common types of malware.

Code Injection attacks 

The purpose of injecting malicious code into a personal computer is to the course of its action to achieve some desired unscrupulous results. One of the most common types of code injection is SQL injection.

Denial-of-Service attack 

In a D-o-S attack, attack networks are filled with false requests. In such cases, mail, websites, online accounts etc. become compromised. However, it may be resolved without paying a ransom. DoS attacks distract company resources and result in time wastage.

DNS tunnelling 

This type of attack transmits code and data within the domain name system queries and response network, thereby gaining complete command and control services. Malware is injected into the network with the intent of extracting IP, sensitive data and other information. DNS tunnelling is a simple mode of hacking.

IoT-based attacks 

An attack that compromises Internet of Things (IoT) devices and networks and enables hackers to steal data and/or to join a network of infected devices to launch a DoS attack.

Phishing 

This attack technique uses emails, phone calls, text messages and social engineering techniques. The ultimate purpose is to obtain sensitive information like account numbers, one-time passwords etc. to hack the victim’s bank account and syphon money away. Many times, hackers engage victims in using malicious URLs for this purpose.  

Supply Chain attacks 

This attack infects the software and hardware systems of a trusted vendor by the process of injecting malicious code into the system to compromise both the hardware and software components. Software supply chains are vulnerable since the programming codes are based on mostly open systems and not original.   

Spoofing 

This is an old method of stealing sensitive data or even jeopardising the entire network systems of an organisation upon posing as a trusted partner to the same. This is done for three purposes – 

• To gather competitor information.
• To extort money. 
• To destroy servers and data by installing malware. Insider threats 

This is an attack generated by a present disgruntled employee or an ex-employee of the organisation. It may be noted that insider threat also occurs accidentally, when employees do such things over their computer systems, that they are not supposed to. In the second case, regular training on cyber security can help the organisation educate their employees at large.  

Identity-based attacks 

By and large, this is the most common form of cyber-attack on individuals. In this form, the hacker compromises the credentials of an authentic user and has access to his or her account. It is very difficult to recognise this hack or differentiate between the behavioural patterns of the hacker and the original user since the hacker uses traditional forms of security procedures while using the account. 

Some of the common forms of identity-based attacks are as follows – MITM (man in the middle) attacks, pass the hack attacks, golden ticket attacks, silver ticket attacks, credential stuffing attacks, password spraying attacks, brute force attacks and downgrade attacks.

Standard Safety Designs for Digital Infrastructure

Besides the above-mentioned technologies used to prevent cyber-attacks, there are certain standard procedures to be followed by the organisation. They are as follows –

Implementation of a zero-trust model 

In this model, all users, devices and applications within the network are considered untrustworthy. This process is achieved by the implementation of access control, identity and access management (IAM), multi-factor authentication (MFA) and the introduction of an infusion detection system and firewalls. The sole purpose is to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic. 

Usage of data encryption 

Almost all organisations use encryption techniques both for data storage & transmission procedures. This not only strengthens network security but also boosts confidentiality. Security design uses SSL/ TLS encryption for all web traffic and full-disk encryption for all connected laptops, desktops and mobile devices.     

Network segmentation 

The process of network subdivision helps in lateral movement across the network by separating critical systems and data from the rest of the network. This is implemented by use of smaller subnets like VLANs.  

Strong Password Policies 

The use of strong complex alpha-numeric passwords with special characters bolsters net security.  

Dual layer of safety 

Additional reinforcement of MFA (multi-factor authentication) acts as a second line of defence.

Updating software 

Updating system software is as important as it is obvious. Updated software provides additional and relevant security patches to tackle the latest threats. In most devices, auto update mode is followed to avoid any negligence in failing to do so.

Educating team on cybersecurity 

Nowadays cybersecurity is not a subject of the ISD (information systems department) professionals alone. Each staff needs to be educated with the know-how to tackle phishing and insider attacks.  

Regular audits

It is no secret that regular audits, both by internal and external teams, are required to monitor all networking devices, servers and systems. Early detection of breaches may lead to the prevention of greater system damages. Audits help maintain safe business continuity and safeguard unauthorised access to the system and network security.

Ways to secure digital infrastructure in a hybrid system

COVID has changed the concept of cybersecurity forever. The situation has resulted in more workforce to operate from home where the network system is relatively less protected. Additionally, organisations use cloud-based systems for their regular tasks, besides their standard organisation network. This hybrid working environment has posed enormous challenges to the IT security team and has encouraged them to adopt newer models and practices that are aligned with modern business requirements. 

The four most commonly used latest security models are as follows –

• SaaS-enabled security
• Extended detection and response (XDR)
• Security access service edge (SASE)
• Container security system 

Specialised Subjects in Cybersecurity

Based on the nature of operations, there are several specialisations in cyber security. Due to its vastness, it is next to impossible for an individual to master all the specialisations. The categories are as follows –

• Access control system and methodology
• Telecommunication and network security
• Security management practices
• Security architecture and models
• Law, investigation and ethics
• Application and system development security
• Cryptography
• Computer operations security
• Physical security  

Job Roles for Cybersecurity Professionals

The demand for IT Security professionals is growing day by day. Some of the roles offered by reputed organisations (concerned with cyber security) are as follows –

Chief Information Security Officer 

Entrusted with the IT security of an organisation.

Forensic Computer Analyst 

They look for evidence after a cyber-attack.

Information Security Analyst 

Protects computer and network system.

Penetration tester 

Highly skilled security professionals are engaged whose main job is to breach the secured system of the said organisation i.e. to identify loopholes in existing security practices.

IT Security Engineer 

The main role of these professionals is to monitor and keep the network and devices safe daily. They also address the day-to-day issues of users. 

Cybersecurity Certification

To become an expert cyber security personnel in their respective specialisation, one needs to clear either of the following certification courses –

CND or Certified Network Defender 

This course covers the identification of threats, protecting and responding to cyber threats. 

CompTIA Security+ Certification 

It is a globally trusted certification course imparting vendor-neutral security knowledge and skills.

CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) 

This course delves into reverse engineering of systems for a better understanding of digital infrastructure breaches and their remedies.   

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is gaining importance with each passing day. The Advanced Certificate in Cybersecurity and Blockchain by E&ICT IIT Guwahati can you become a cybersecurity professional. The duration of this cybersecurity certification programme is 10 months. This online cybersecurity programme also entitles the students to a 3-day campus immersion and to have live sessions from IIT-G professors. 

Besides this, the course also takes care of the true academy-industry balance and invites industry experts for interactive sessions. They also get a taste of real-time industry challenges in cybersecurity. Students get trained in the latest blockchain technology. Students gain practical ethical hacking skills and earn the most coveted CEHv12 certification. 

This cybersecurity course is a must for aspiring professionals for the reasons mentioned below – 

• To learn to identify potential risks.
• To build cybersecurity proficiencies
• To make the organisation cyber-resilient
• To navigate real-world challenges
• To be an apt cybersecurity solution provider

Visit the official website of Imarticus for more details.

Cyber threats are on the rise and SQL Injection is a troublesome hacking method that compromises the cybersecurity of digital assets. It’s a strategy that attackers use to introduce malicious code into data-driven applications. Once inside, this rogue code can become a major headache for developers and users. Hackers can access sensitive information and even destroy entire databases. It’s a serious threat that every developer and business owner should be aware of and take steps to prevent. 

A certified cybersecurity course helps students know about potential cyber threats like SQL injection attacks and build cybersecurity proficiencies. In this article, we will get to know what SQL injection is, how harmful it is, and its types. We will also find out about some effective SQL injection attack prevention tips in this article. 

What is SQL Injection? 

SQL injection, or SQLI for short, is a prevalent attack method that mischievously inserts harmful SQL code into backend databases. SQL Injection enables attackers to infiltrate databases and lay hands on sensitive data. With the successful infiltration of this code, hackers get access to database records, and can alter, update, add or wipe out data permanently.  

You might be wondering what its goal is. Well, its goal is to access information that wasn’t meant to be shared with others. This information could be anything from confidential company data to private customer details, putting businesses and users at risk. SQL codes are like digital trespassers who sneak into users’ databases and mess up important files without permission. 

A successful SQL injection attack can ruin websites or web apps reliant on relational databases like MySQL, Oracle, or SQL Server. Recent times have witnessed numerous security breaches stemming from such SQL injection attacks, which highlights the urgent need for robust defenses against this security threat.

The repercussions of an SQL injection on a business are extensive. A successful breach could lead to unauthorised access to user lists, the wholesale deletion of tables, and, in some instances, the attacker can even acquire administrative control over a database. These outcomes are disastrous for any business and pose significant threats to its operations and reputation.

How Does SQL Work on A Website?

A typical website comprises three key elements: the frontend, backend, and database. The frontend, where the website’s design is crafted, utilises technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

In the backend, programming languages such as Python, PHP, or Perl are used to manage the server’s operations. The database resides on the server side and hosts systems like MySQL, Oracle, and MS SQL server, executing queries. Crucial data is stored here. Usually when users write a query, they initiate a “get” request to the website. Subsequently, the website responds by sending back HTML code.

A SQL query is like a request for something to happen in a database. It can also make changes outside the database. Each query has its own settings to make sure it only shows the right results. However, during a SQL injection, hackers incorporate malicious codes into a query’s input form. 

Before launching a SQL injection attack, hackers first study the targeted database thoroughly. They do this by sending different random values to the query and noticing how the server reacts. Once they understand how the database works, they create a query that tricks the server into thinking it’s a regular SQL command, and then the server runs it.

Examples of SQL Injection Attacks

Below, we have enlisted a few prevalent examples of SQL injection:

• SQL query alteration: Cybercriminals can change a SQL query to uncover hidden data, revealing sensitive information that’s not supposed to be disclosed. 
• Login bypass: Hackers inject SQL commands into a login form to bypass the authentication process and gain unauthorised access to programs or websites.
• Undermining application logic: Hackers can also tamper with queries to disrupt the normal operation of the application.
• Union attacks: These attacks help attackers to retrieve data from multiple database tables simultaneously.
• Database analysis: Cybercriminals study the database to learn about its version and structure, extracting valuable insights.
• Blind SQL injection: In this type of attack, no error messages are generated by the database, which makes it harder to detect the attack.
• Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks: In this type of attack, an attacker inserts a SQL statement to trigger a denial of service (DoS) or DDoS attack, disrupting a system with overwhelming traffic.

Types of SQL Injections

SQL injections generally come in three categories: In-band SQLi (classic), Inferential SQLi (blind), and Out-of-band SQLi. These types have been classified based on how they access backend data and the extent of potential damage they can cause.

In-band SQLi

In-band SQL injection involves attackers utilising the same communication channel to serve two purposes, namely, to execute their attacks and to retrieve the outcomes. This method’s simplicity and effectiveness makes it one of the most prevalent types of SQL injection attacks.

There are two sub-variations within this method:

• Error-based SQL injection: In this case, attackers provoke the database to generate error messages by performing certain actions. They can then use these error messages to learn about the database’s structure.
• Union-based SQL injection: On the other hand, this attack exploits the UNION SQL operator. This operator combines results from different select statements in the database, providing a single HTTP response. Attackers can use this response to access valuable data.

Inferential SQL injection

Here, attackers send specific data to the server and then analyse how the server responds. By studying these responses and the server’s behavior, attackers gain insights into the database’s structure. This method is termed “blind” because the attacker doesn’t directly receive data from the website database, making it impossible to see information about the attack in the same channel of communication.

Blind SQL injections depend on analysing the server’s response and behavior, which can make them slower to execute compared to other methods. However, they can still be just as damaging. 

This type of attack can be subdivided into two types: 

1. Boolean: One type of Blind SQL injection is Boolean, where attackers send SQL queries to the databases, triggering the applications to produce a result. Depending on whether the query is true or false, the HTTP response will change accordingly. By observing these changes, the attacker can determine whether the query yielded a true or false result.
2. Time-based: In Time-based Blind SQL injection, the attackers send SQL queries to the databases, causing it to delay its response for a set amount of time. By observing the duration of this delay, the attacker can infer whether the query is true or false. Depending on the outcome, the HTTP response will either be immediate or delayed. This allows the attacker to determine the truthfulness of the query without directly accessing data from the database.

Out-of-band SQL injection

This is another method of attack that relies on specific features being activated on the database server utilised by the web application. It serves as an alternative to in-band and inferential SQL injection techniques.

It is usually employed when the attacker cannot utilise the same communication channel to execute the attack and obtain information, or when the server’s performance is too slow for these tasks. Out-of-band SQL injection relies on the server generating DNS or HTTP requests for transmitting data to the attackers.

Harmful Effects of SQL Injection Attacks on Your Business

SQL injection attacks pose significant threats to businesses or organisations, with potential negative outcomes including:

• Unauthorised or administrative access to sensitive information and resources by cybercriminals.
• Risk of data breaches due to unauthorised entry into resources.
• Manipulation of data or deletion of entire database tables by malicious actors.
• Breach of databases facilitating intrusion into entire networks or systems.
• Erosion of customer trust, potentially leading to reduced revenue.
• Substantial time and resources required for recovery and implementation of enhanced security measures.

Although the immediate impact of a successful SQL injection attack may be challenging to determine, the long-term repercussions, such as damage to reputation, legal expenses, and missed business opportunities, can be prominent.

How to Prevent SQL Attacks? 

Many modern websites and applications rely on databases built with Structured Query Language (SQL). However, vulnerabilities like SQL injection (SQLi) emerge when websites fail to properly screen or control the queries they receive. Lack of proper administration enables attackers to sneak bits of SQL code into the queries, thus gaining access over valuable information from the database. Hence, preventing these attacks becomes paramount. Unlike malware, which is mostly downloaded, SQL attacks work by being injected. 

Below discussed are some effective measures following which companies can prevent such dangerous attacks. 

Filter database inputs

This is a crucial step in bolstering security against SQL injection vulnerabilities, even though it may not stop attacks entirely. By filtering inputs from websites and applications, organisations can lay the groundwork for a more secure environment. 

However, attackers often exploit loopholes in extended URLs and special character handling to infiltrate databases and execute unauthorised commands. They can possibly  gain access to sensitive data and even delete it. Businesses must also take this into account when monitoring their databases. 

Restrict database code

While input filtering is an effective step, attackers can adopt various other ways to execute their intentions. They can circumvent the code through sero-day vulnerabilities or compromised credentials. Therefore, to enhance security, organisations must impose restrictions on the code that gives access to the database. By doing so, they can exercise greater control over the database’s capabilities, thereby reducing the potential for exploitation by attackers.

Database managers can achieve this by minimising functionality, and making a list of fair user inputs. These measures confine the database to essential functionalities, reducing unexpected uses and potential exploits.

Restrict database access

Eventually, a user’s login details might get stolen, or a hacker might find a hidden weakness in a website, database, or server. To reduce the harm caused by a SQL injection attack:

• Use firewalls to control who can access the system from outside.
• Limit what users can do by only showing them basic error messages and restricting their access to certain parts of the database.
• Make it hard for attackers to profit from a breach by encrypting sensitive data and avoiding shared accounts as much as possible.

Maintain applications and databases

Companies need to keep an eye out for any new weaknesses in their apps and databases that hackers could exploit using SQL injection. It’s important to stay informed about any updates or fixes announced by the software makers. To protect against SQL injection attacks, it’s essential to keep everything up to date, including the database server, frameworks, libraries, plug-ins, APIs, and web server software. If companies find it hard to stay updated, they can also invest in patch management tools available. 

To make monitoring more effective, advanced tools like Privileged Access Management (PAM) and Security Incident and Event Management (SIEM) can use smart technology like machine learning and behavior analysis. These tools add extra security layers and help organisations spot possible threats early on. This also makes application-level hijacking extremely hard.

Conclusion

By now, we know how important it is for businesses to safeguard themselves against rising SQL injection attacks. By continuously monitoring SQL statements and promptly addressing existing weaknesses, they can strengthen their protection against potential breaches and data compromises.

Investing in advanced tools and techniques, such as Privileged Access Management (PAM) and Security Incident and Event Management (SIEM), further bolsters security measures. This in turn ensures the proactive detection of malicious code and the mitigation of threats. Lastly, companies must stay vigilant and alert in addressing SQL injection vulnerabilities to maintain their integrity and security 

If you are interested in pursuing a cybersecurity certification programme or wish to know how to secure and defend digital infrastructure, you can enrol in Imarticus’s Cybersecurity and Blockchain programme. This cybersecurity course will help you master the knowledge and critical skills you need to make a planned future in the realm of cybersecurity, cryptography and blockchain.

Application-level and network-level session hijacking are serious issues that can easily compromise the confidentiality and integrity of user data. The blog will throw light on the difference between the two types of attacks, the common tools used by hackers, and the effective counter options. This will make users aware of session hijacking.

People who are not aware of these attacks can get enrolled in various educational programmes and consultations. They can consider taking a cybersecurity course to learn more about the different ways to protect and safeguard their online presence. Moreover, they can maintain a secure digital environment.

Session hijacking is a malicious attack where the attacker takes control of the user’s session on the computer and the server. This helps the attacker access sensitive information, manipulate data, and capture the user’s place. Knowledge about different types of hijacking, lets users better protect against such threats.

Cybersecurity professionals can offer effective security measures when they are aware of the different types of session hijacking. They can know about the methods used by the attackers. This helps the organisation to protect its system smoothly and efficiently from being victim to session hijacking attacks. It is important to stay informed and vigilant to protect against the cybersecurity threats.

Application-Level Session Hijacking

Application-level session hijacking is a harmful cyber attack where an unauthorised individual can get control of the user’s session in the application. The attack happens when the user successfully authenticates themselves and accesses applications. The attacker can intercept and manipulate the session data to harm the user. They can get access to sensitive information and perform malicious activities on the user’s application.

Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in the application’s session management mechanisms. Common methods come up in the form of session fixation, where the attacker sets the user’s session. Session sniffing happens when the attacker intercepts session cookies and tokens. The attacker can bypass authentication procedures and carry out unauthorised actions in the applications. This can pose a major threat to the confidentiality and integrity of the user data.

Developers can implement secure coding practices like HTTPS to encrypt communication, using strong session management techniques like token-based authentication. This regularly monitors and audits session activity for any suspicious behaviour. Users can easily protect themselves when they log out of applications when they are not in use. Moreover, they must avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions and be aware of phishing attempts. This results in session hijacking.

Techniques Used in Application-Level Session Hijacking

Application-level session hijacking is a serious security threat in the digital world. Attackers can harm web applications to get unauthorised access to user sessions.

Session fixation

Session fixation allows the attacker to set a user’s session ID before they opt for login. This helps them control the session once the user authenticates.

Session hijacking

Attackers can get unencrypted session cookies to get into the user’s session. Attackers can steal session cookies and harm the user when they do not know about their login credentials. This technique is effective for public Wi-Fi networks where the traffic is unencrypted.

Cross-site scripting

Cross-site scripting results in session hijacking when the malicious scripts are injected into web pages to steal session information. Attackers can inject malicious scripts into the website. Attackers can manipulate session cookies and hijack user sessions. This allows attackers to execute scripts in the victim’s browser. This gives access to sensitive session information. Web developers can protect the user inputs and implement proper security measures.

Network-Level Session Hijacking

Network-level session hijacking is when an attacker intercepts and takes over the communication session between the two parties. This happens because of vulnerabilities in network protocols and with techniques like packet sniffing and capturing session data.

The attacker gets unauthorised access to sensitive information like login credentials, and financial and personal data. They can easily harm any parties involved and carry out malicious activities without any form of tracing. It is important to use encryption and secure protocols to avoid such attacks and guarantee the confidentiality and integrity of communication sessions.

One must consider it vital to implement strong encryption, use secure communication protocols like HTTPS, and regularly update the system to fix the issues and risks. Moreover, monitoring the network traffic for unusual activities results in lowering potential hijacking attempts and reduces the risks of such attacks.

Techniques used in network-level session hijacking

Network-level session hijacking is a serious security threat. Attackers can intercept and manipulate the ongoing sessions between two parties. Techniques used in network-level session hijacking are stated below:

Man-in-the-middle attacks

The attacker can place themselves between the communication flow of the two parties. This helps them block the session and change the data being exchanged between the parties without any form of knowledge between them.

Session sniffing

Attackers can easily monitor network traffic to capture session data when they use specialised tools. This happens when they try to steal sensitive information like login credentials and session tokens. This technique is the best fit for unsecured networks where the data is transferred in plain text. Attackers can intercept it and misuse the information.

Session fixation

The attacker sets a session identifier for the victim before they opt for authentication. This helps the attackers predict and control the session once the victim logs in. Attackers can then gain unauthorised access to the victim’s account and carry out malicious activities.

Difference Between Network-Level Session Hijacking and Application-Level Session Hijacking

Network-level session hijacking involves intercepting and taking the communication session between the two parties. The attack happens at the network level. Attackers can block the communication and manipulate the data being exchanged. 

Application-level hijacking can target the session token and cookies used by web applications to authenticate users. Attackers can harm users and gain access to unauthorised information. Moreover, they can even perform malicious actions on behalf of the users.

Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in the network infrastructure and protocols. This helps them manipulate and intercept the communication flow between the different parties. The attack is challenging to detect because it happens in the lower level of the networking stack. Attackers can use different techniques like cross-site scripting and session fixation to steal session tokens and hijack user sessions.

Every organisation must be vigilant and proactive to protect its networks and applications. The network-level and application-level session hijacking come up with serious security risks for individuals and businesses. It is important to follow preventive measures like:

•   Secure communication protocols
•   Implement strong encryption
•   Regularly updating software
•   Conducting security audits

Tools for Session Hijacking

It is important to note that session hijacking is a serious threat in the current digital landscape. Different tools are used for session hijacking.

Firesheep

Firesheep is a Firefox extension that can easily capture the session cookies transferred in unsecured Wi-Fi networks. The tool is commonly used due to its simplicity and effectiveness in capturing session cookies. This helps attackers easily take over user sessions on different websites.

Wireshark

Wireshark is a network protocol that can intercept and monitor the traffic in a network. This is a powerful tool that administrators use for legitimate purposes. However, they can also be misused for hijacking.

Burp Site

Burp site is a platform to perform security testing of web applications. They come up with a wide range of features like intercepting proxy, spider, scanner, and repeater. This makes it the best choice for cybersecurity professionals. They can test for risks like session hijacking.

Individuals and organisations must be aware of the tools and take the necessary measures to protect against session hijacking. They can implement secure connections by encrypting protocols and regularly monitoring network traffic. This helps professionals to protect against the risks of the tools. Users can reduce the risks when they are informed and proactive. Moreover, this guarantees the security of online activities.

How Attackers Utilise These Tools to Carry Out Session Hijacking Attacks

Attackers have different tools for carrying out the session hijacking attacks. Some of the tools which they use are stated below:

Packet sniffers

Attackers can intercept data packets exchanged between the users and the server. This helps them to capture sensitive information like login credentials and session tokens. When they analyse the packets, this allows the hackers to identify and hijack active sessions without any form of knowledge from the user’s end.

Session fixation

Āttackers can manipulate session identifiers when they force the user to authenticate with a known session ID. They can then get access to the user’s account when they log in with the compromised session ID. This method is effective when it combines with social engineering techniques to trick users into using the attacker’s session ID.

Session replay attacks

Attackers can capture the user’s session data and replay it to the server. This helps them to do the following activities:

•       Take the role of the attacker
•       Get access to sensitive information
•       Perform several malicious activities.

This method has drawbacks, as the attacker cannot encrypt the data. Moreover, this is difficult to detect and prevent. 

Risks Associated with These Tools Being in the Wrong Hands

Session hijacking comes up with several threats when these tools are in the wrong hands. 

• Tools like packet sniffers and session hijacking software can intercept sensitive data like login credentials and other personal information. The tools can result in theft, financial loss, and unauthorised access to private accounts.
• Developers can lose confidential information when attackers have unauthorised access to the sessions. This results in damaging the reputation of individuals and businesses. Moreover, it can violate privacy regulations and have legal consequences.
• Session hijacking tools can disrupt operations and cause financial damage. Attackers can disrupt services when they gain unauthorised access to accounts and systems, steal intellectual property, and launch cyber attacks. The financial impact of the incidents comes in the form of loss of revenue, recovery costs, and damage to the brand’s reputation.

Countermeasures for Application-Level Session Hijacking

Applications can store user data and information. It is important to know about the best practices and countermeasures for application-level session hijacking. Developers can opt for secure coding practices to avoid such risks. SSL/ TLS is an encryption technique in which developers can protect the sensitive information exchanged between the client and server. This makes it harder for attackers to intercept and manipulate session data.

Implementing proper session management can reduce the chances of application-level session hijacking. Users can reduce the use of randomly generated session IDs, set session timeouts, and update session tokens. Developers can boost the security of the applications when they enforce strict access controls and validate user inputs.

Technologies and Tools that Can Help Mitigate the Risk of Application-Level Session Hijacking

Application-level session hijacking is a serious issue in which users can even sacrifice sensitive data. Developers can easily reduce the risk when they follow the below-mentioned points:

HTTPS

It is important to use secure communication protocols like HTTPS. These protocols encrypt the data between the clients and the server so attackers cannot intercept and manipulate session information.

Multi-factor authentication

Multi-factor authentication helps developers add an extra layer of security when users offer forms of verification before they access the accounts. This reduces the chances of unauthorised access when the session tokens are sacrificed.

Regular updates and patching of the software

This particular step is beneficial to avoid session hijacking attacks. When attackers get unauthorised access to sessions, software risks can be exploited. Businesses must be aware of security patches and software updates. This helps reduce the chances of application-level session hijacking.

Importance of Regular Security Updates and Patches

Regular security updates and patches are needed to protect against risks that attackers can impose on the network and applications. Software vendors come up with release updates to fix security flaws and improve the security of the products. Organisations can ensure that the systems are protected from these vulnerabilities. When they neglect to install security patches, this leaves the systems susceptible to attacks. This can increase the chance of session hijacking and other types of security breaches.

When developers opt for technologies like HTTPS, secure cookies, and multi-factor authentication, this helps them avoid application-level session hijacking. It is important to stay aware of the application’s security updates and patches for maintaining a secure online environment. Organisations can reduce the chances of being victims of the attacks when they know about the importance of using these measures.

Countermeasures for Network-Level Session Hijacking

Network-level session hijacking is a major threat in the digital environment. Several countermeasures can be used to protect against the malicious activity:

SSL/TLS

These are encryption protocols that can secure communication channels. When attackers encrypt the data between clients and servers, they are deterred from intercepting and manipulating sensitive information.

Strong authentication mechanisms

Strong authentication mechanisms can help developers to avoid the threat of network-level session hijacking. It is important to use multi-factor authentication, biometric verification, and one-time passwords. This makes it difficult for attackers to access sensitive accounts. Using multiple forms of identification reduces the risk of session hijacking.

Regular monitoring and analysis

This step is needed to detect any suspicious activity of session hijacking. Intrusion detection systems, security information, and event management tools help developers identify the issues in network behaviour. They can opt for prompt responses to reduce the likelihood of potential threats. Organisations can fight these problems when they stay vigilant and proactive while monitoring the network traffic.

Network Security Protocols that Can Help Prevent Network-Level Session Hijacking

Network security protocols are needed to prevent network-level session hijacking. Developers can use protocols like Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) to encrypt data transmitted over the network. This makes it harder for attackers to intercept and manipulate sessions.

Encryption is another basic element of secure network communications. It guarantees that the data exchanged between devices remains protected. The data must be scrambled and unreadable for unauthorised parties. Sensitive information like passwords, financial data, and personal details can be threatened when people do not follow proper encryption methods. This puts the entire network at risk of session hijacking.

Developers can protect network communications in session hijacking when they use strong encryption protocols. They can opt for encryption and use strong security measures. This helps organisations protect their networks from any form of unauthorised access and data breaches. 

If they do not have the basic knowledge, professionals can opt for cybersecurity training. There are several benefits when they get a cybersecurity education to boost their knowledge and skills.

Future Trends in Application-Level Session Hijacking

Session hijacking is a method that attackers use to gain unauthorised access to a user’s session. Hackers use advanced tools to intercept and manipulate session data, which can pose a major threat when users opt for cybersecurity. Attackers can use these technologies to boost their session hijacking capabilities in this era of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Session hijacking attacks can become more sophisticated and difficult to detect. Attackers can easily exploit vulnerabilities in IoT devices, cloud devices, and mobile applications. This helps them hijack sessions and steal sensitive information. Moreover, the use of automation and bot-in-session hijacking attacks has been on the rise. It is very challenging to defend against such threats effectively.

Cybersecurity professionals and organisations can stay vigilant and update the security measures to protect against the evolving session hijacking attacks. They must come up with multi-factor authentication, encrypt session data, and monitor network traffic for suspicious activities. It is important to stay informed about the recent trends and techniques for session hijacking. This helps cybersecurity professionals to defend themselves and the organisation against future threats.

Future Trends in Network-Level Session Hijacking

Network-level hijacking is a common concern in cybersecurity. Emerging threats include DNS hijacking, BGP hijacking, and ARP spoofing. These techniques help attackers intercept and manipulate network traffic, resulting in data breaches and service disruptions.

Research shows that network hijacking will become more complex soon. Attackers will use artificial intelligence and machine learning to automate the process of identifying and exploiting issues in network protocols. Moreover, the rise of 5G networks and the Internet of Things can offer new attack surfaces for hijackers to target.

Cybersecurity professionals and organisations must update their defence mechanisms to fight the changing network hijacking threats. Here’s what to do when anyone gets stuck:

•   Implement strong encryption protocols
•   Monitor network traffic for anomalies
•   Conduct regular security audits

It is important to be proactive and informed. This helps to protect a business’s sensitive data and maintain the integrity of the networks.

Conclusion

One cannot overstate the importance of using effective countermeasures against session hijacking. When customers are updated on the latest security protocols and use tools like multi-factor authentication and secure connections, individuals and their organisations can reduce the chances of falling victim to malicious activities. Vigilance and proactive measures are needed to reduce the risks which are offered by session hijacking attacks. 

Newcomers might be unaware of the intricacies of these operations. A cybersecurity course from Imarticus is the best option for them to continue their learning journey in cybersecurity. The Advanced Certificate in Cybersecurity and Blockchain course covers the different methods to defend against session hijacking and other cyber threats, including SQL injection tools and injection countermeasures. Learners can stay informed and adopt the best practices in online security, thus contributing towards a safe digital environment.

Visit Imarticus for more course-related details.