Misconfigured Web Apps
TLDR: Misconfigured web apps can result in security vulnerabilities, poor performance, and functional disruptions. Common issues include improper session management, insecure API integrations, and failure to implement secure headers. These mistakes undermine the usability and security of modern web applications, which have been a cornerstone of the internet since the late 1990s.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_application
One frequent issue with misconfigured web apps is the improper handling of sessions. For example, storing session tokens in insecure locations like localStorage without proper expiration increases the risk of session hijacking. Similarly, insecure API integrations, such as failing to validate or sanitize data exchanges, expose applications to injection attacks or data leaks. Another common problem is neglecting to configure secure HTTP headers like Content Security Policy or Strict-Transport-Security, leaving applications vulnerable to XSS and man-in-the-middle attacks.
https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/HTTP/Headers
To mitigate these risks, developers should enforce secure session management practices, such as using HttpOnly cookies for token storage and enabling proper expiration mechanisms. Ensuring API interactions are secured with input validation and authentication tokens prevents unauthorized access. Additionally, implementing a comprehensive security header configuration, combined with regular audits and testing using tools like OWASP ZAP or Burp Suite, ensures the application remains robust and resilient against evolving threats.