What additional security measures can be implemented to protect against password-based attacks, and how does multi-factor authentication enhance security?
In order to protect against password-based attacks and enhance security, there are several additional measures that can be implemented. These measures aim to strengthen the authentication process and minimize the risk of unauthorized access to web applications. One such measure is the implementation of multi-factor authentication (MFA), which adds an extra layer of security by
How does salting enhance password security, and why is it important to use stronger hash functions?
Salting is a technique used to enhance password security in web applications. It involves adding a random value, known as a salt, to each password before hashing it. This salt is then stored alongside the hashed password in the database. The primary purpose of salting is to defend against precomputed rainbow table attacks, where an
- Published in Cybersecurity, EITC/IS/WASF Web Applications Security Fundamentals, Authentication, Introduction to authentication, Examination review
What vulnerability exists in the system even with password hashing, and how can attackers exploit it?
A vulnerability that may exist in a system even with password hashing is known as "password cracking" or "brute force attacks." Despite the use of password hashing, attackers can still exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to a user's account. In this answer, we will explore the concept of password cracking, understand how it
What is the purpose of comparing the hashed password with the stored hash during authentication?
The purpose of comparing the hashed password with the stored hash during authentication is to verify the identity of a user attempting to access a system or application. This process is a fundamental component of authentication in web applications and plays a crucial role in ensuring the security and integrity of user accounts. When a
How does password hashing improve the security of web applications?
Password hashing is a crucial technique in enhancing the security of web applications. It provides a means to protect user passwords by transforming them into a format that is difficult for attackers to decipher. By employing cryptographic algorithms, password hashing ensures that even if an attacker gains access to the password database, the original passwords
How does hashing passwords help protect against unauthorized access in the event of a database breach?
Hashing passwords is a crucial technique in protecting against unauthorized access in the event of a database breach. In this context, hashing refers to the process of converting a password into a fixed-length string of characters using a mathematical algorithm. The resulting hash value is unique to the input password, meaning that even a small
- Published in Cybersecurity, EITC/IS/WASF Web Applications Security Fundamentals, Authentication, Introduction to authentication, Examination review
Explain the concept of a one-way function in the context of password hashing.
A one-way function is a fundamental concept in the context of password hashing, which plays a crucial role in ensuring the security of web applications. In this explanation, we will delve into the concept of one-way functions, their characteristics, and their significance in password hashing. A one-way function, also known as a trapdoor function, is
What are the risks of storing passwords in plain text?
Storing passwords in plain text poses significant risks to the security of web applications. In the field of cybersecurity, the practice of storing passwords in plain text is widely regarded as a poor security practice due to the potential for unauthorized access and misuse of sensitive user information. This answer will provide a detailed and
What is the purpose of using a slow cryptographic hash function for password hashing?
A slow cryptographic hash function is commonly used for password hashing in web applications security for several reasons. The purpose of using a slow cryptographic hash function is to enhance the security of password storage and protect user credentials from unauthorized access. This approach is an essential aspect of authentication systems in web applications, as
Why is it important to hash passwords before storing them in a database?
Passwords are a fundamental component of authentication in web applications. They serve as a means for users to verify their identity and gain access to restricted resources or services. However, the security of passwords is a critical concern, as compromised passwords can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential harm to individuals and organizations.
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