Secure Coding Practices

Introduction Common Vulnerabilities Best Practices Code Examples FAQ

1. Introduction

Secure coding practices are essential for developing applications that protect user data and maintain the integrity of the system. The goal is to prevent vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious users.

2. Common Vulnerabilities

Key Vulnerabilities

SQL Injection
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
Insecure Direct Object References (IDOR)
Security Misconfigurations

3. Best Practices

Key Best Practices

Validate Input: Ensure all input is validated and sanitized.
Use Parameterized Queries: Prevent SQL injection by using parameterized queries or ORM libraries.
Implement Proper Authentication: Use secure methods for user authentication and session management.
Use HTTPS: Secure data in transit by enforcing HTTPS.
Regularly Update Dependencies: Keep libraries and frameworks up-to-date to avoid known vulnerabilities.

4. Code Examples

Example of Parameterized Queries


const { Pool } = require('pg');
const pool = new Pool();

async function getUserById(userId) {
    const query = 'SELECT * FROM users WHERE id = $1';
    const values = [userId];
    const res = await pool.query(query, values);
    return res.rows[0];
}

5. FAQ

What is SQL Injection?

SQL Injection is a code injection technique that attackers use to exploit vulnerabilities in an application's software by manipulating SQL queries.

How can I ensure my application is secure?

Follow best practices like input validation, using prepared statements, and keeping software updated regularly.

What is XSS?

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users.