What is it?
This assessment scrutinises web applications to identify coding errors, poor input handling, insecure session management, and other weaknesses. It aims to ensure that any public or internal-facing web application resists common and emerging attacks.
What could happen?
Without proper assessments, attackers may exploit SQL injection, cross-site scripting, or authentication bypasses to steal sensitive data, alter business logic, or move laterally across the network. Such breaches impact customer trust, brand reputation, and regulatory standing.
What to do about it?
Foundational: Run basic automated scans (e.g., OWASP ZAP) against web applications to identify low-hanging vulnerabilities like outdated components.
Outcome: A quick baseline understanding of obvious flaws.
Enhanced: Perform manual penetration testing focusing on the OWASP Top 10. Implement secure coding practices and developer training programmes to reduce recurring flaws.
Outcome: More robust applications with fewer exploitable vulnerabilities.
Comprehensive: Integrate secure code reviews into the Software Development Lifecycle, deploy Web Application Firewalls (WAFs), and conduct continuous testing with DevSecOps pipelines.
Outcome: A mature, proactive web security posture aligned with rapid development cycles.
