A07:2025 – Authentication Failures
Insecure authentication vulnerabilities occur when authentication mechanisms are improperly implemented, allowing attackers to manipulate authentication responses and bypass login checks. This is significant because it undermines the core security of the application, granting unauthorized access to sensitive user accounts or administrative features.
The impact of such a vulnerability is critical, as it enables attackers to impersonate legitimate users, compromise sensitive data, perform unauthorized actions, and escalate privileges. It can lead to account takeovers, data breaches, or even a full system compromise if administrative accounts are affected.
To remediate this issue, ensure the authentication logic is processed securely on the server side and is independent of client-side inputs. Use strong session management and implement robust server-side validation of login credentials. Protect communication channels with HTTPS, and monitor for anomalous authentication attempts. Regularly test for vulnerabilities using tools like Burp Suite or automated security scanners.