iFrame Injection (Cross-Frame Scripting)

Severity: Medium
Test name: iFrame Injection
Summary

Web applications contain various components, including platforms, frameworks, and libraries. It's important to address any weaknesses in these components by updating their source code or upgrading the application's version. Attackers map out an application, identify its platform and dependencies, and search for known vulnerabilities and exploit codes. They then use these exploits to compromise the application. Clickjacking attacks involve deceiving users by inserting hidden elements into legitimate websites, leading them to unknowingly perform malicious actions. These attacks have severe consequences and pose risks to user security and privacy.

Impact

Unauthorized Actions, Gather sensitive information, Malware Distribution, Account Takeover

Location

The issue can be found in the server side on the client side.

Remedy suggestions

To enhance the security of web applications and counter frame injection attacks, it's advisable to consider the following steps:

  • Input Validation and Sanitization: Implement robust input validation and sanitization techniques. These measures ensure that user-provided data undergoes thorough validation and cleansing before being displayed or processed. By doing so, the application safeguards itself against potential injection of malicious code or frames into vulnerable areas.
  • Content Security Policy (CSP): Deploy a Content Security Policy that restricts the sources from which content can be loaded on the website. This precaution prevents unauthorized scripts from running or malicious frames from being embedded from untrusted origins.
  • X-Frame-Options Header: Activate the X-Frame-Options header in the server's HTTP response. This action curbs the embedding of your web application within iframes on other websites. It safeguards against clickjacking attacks by disallowing the application's framing without explicit authorization.
  • Frame-Busting Techniques: Integrate frame-busting techniques within your application's code. This prevents the application from loading within iframes. This defense thwarts clickjacking attempts by ensuring the application is always presented in a top-level window.
  • Security Audits and Penetration Testing: Regularly perform security audits and penetration tests. These examinations help detect and rectify vulnerabilities linked to frame injection attacks. Engaging security experts for thorough testing provides insights and recommendations to address any identified issues.
  • User Education: Educate users about the risks associated with interacting with unfamiliar or suspicious elements on websites and apps. Encourage cautious behavior when clicking links or buttons. Urge users to report any unusual activities they come across.
  • Stay Updated with Security Best Practices: Stay current with the latest security practices, guidelines, and industry standards related to web application security. Regularly update and patch all software components within the application stack to resolve known vulnerabilities.
Classifications
  • CWE-601
  • CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:N/A:N
References