Enhancing Security to Prevent Vulnerabilities in Web Applications

Abstract

The security of web applications remains a critical concern amidst escalating cyber threats and vulnerabilities. This research paper presents findings from an experimental study conducted on five websites using the pentest scanning tool. The experiment aimed to assess the vulnerabilities present in these web applications and identify potential security gaps. The prevalence of vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, Missing HttpOnly flag, and inadequate Content-Security-Policy underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to enhance web application security. Leveraging insights gained from the experiment, a novel Quality Enhancement Model for Secured Web Applications (QEMSWA) is proposed. This model integrates best practices and proactive strategies to fortify the security posture of web applications, addressing key areas such as the identification of assets, secure coding practices, code review, and effective vulnerability analysis. By proposing a recommendation model, this research seeks to empower organizations to mitigate risks and safeguard their web applications against emerging threats. Through the development of the QEMSWA model, this study contributes to ongoing efforts to establish a more resilient and secure digital environment.