Preventing Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)

What is it?

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of attack cybercriminals use to gain unauthorized access to your web pages. Attackers will insert a piece of code into your site, usually through an input field such as a search box, user ID, or Name/Address box to use this attack. If your website is vulnerable to this type of attack, the attacker can access and control the content of your page, including the user's cookies or session variables.

What is the impact?

Cybercriminals use this type of attack to trick their visitors into providing personal data. Since visitors believe they are providing this information to a trusted site, they can unknowingly provide sensitive information to attackers. The attackers then use this information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card information, etc., to carry out identity theft and other criminal activities.

What can I do about it?

Ensure website applications are kept up-to-date and limit the use of third-party plugins where possible, as they can increase the number of vulnerabilities on your site. Any third-party themes and plugins used should be updated regularly to their latest secure versions to address or prevent vulnerabilities. Being vigilant and proactive about website security is also important. Use a website scanning service that features XSS vulnerability scans, such as SiteLock Prevent and Prevent Plus.

If you are writing your code, be sure to validate your input fields for special characters and ensure that the settings for your code are frequently updated and hardened for security. You can also take advantage of the SiteLock Expert Services team to correct any issues identified on their scans.