Secure Coding Patterns - OWASP Top 10

Secure coding patterns are best practices that aim to prevent security vulnerabilities in software development. When applied correctly, these patterns significantly reduce the risk of attacks outlined in the OWASP Top 10, which is a list of the most critical security risks to web applications.

2.1 What is OWASP?

OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project) is a nonprofit organization focused on improving the security of software. It provides tools, resources, and community support to help organizations maintain secure coding practices.

2.2 Common Vulnerabilities

Common vulnerabilities include:

• SQL Injection
• Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
• Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
• Security Misconfiguration
• Insecure Deserialization

3.1 Input Validation Pattern

Always validate user input to ensure it meets the required format. This helps prevent injection attacks.

function isValidEmail(email) {
    const regex = /^[^\s@]+@[^\s@]+\.[^\s@]+$/;
    return regex.test(email);
}
                

3.2 Output Encoding Pattern

Encode output to prevent XSS attacks. Ensure all data sent to the client is properly encoded.

function escapeHtml(unsafe) {
    return unsafe
        .replace(/&/g, "&")
        .replace(/</g, "<")
        .replace(/>/g, ">")
        .replace(/"/g, '"')
        .replace(/'/g, "'");
}
                

3.3 Authentication and Session Management Pattern

Implement strong authentication mechanisms and manage session securely.

if (user.isAuthenticated()) {
    session.start(user);
} else {
    throw new Error('Authentication failed');
}
                

4.1 Follow the Principle of Least Privilege

Users should have only the permissions they need to perform their functions.

4.2 Regularly Update Dependencies

Keep libraries and frameworks up to date to minimize vulnerabilities.

4.3 Conduct Code Reviews

Implement peer code reviews to catch security vulnerabilities early in the development process.