In cybersecurity, file inclusion refers to a technique programmers use to build web applications. It allows them to include content from separate files into a single webpage, making code reuse and maintenance easier.

However, it's crucial to note that attackers can also exploit this technique through a vulnerability known as a File Inclusion Vulnerability. When left unmanaged, this vulnerability can lead to severe security breaches as it allows attackers to trick the application into including malicious files.

There are two main types of File Inclusion Vulnerabilities:

• Local File Inclusion (LFI): Attackers exploit this to access unauthorized files on the server itself. It can be sensitive data like passwords or configuration files.

• Remote File Inclusion (RFI): This is more severe. Attackers can include malicious code from a remote server, allowing them to execute programs on the target server. It can lead to data theft, server compromise, or a takeover.

To prevent these vulnerabilities, developers must adequately validate all user input before including it in files. It can involve techniques like listing allowed filenames and filtering out special characters.

ThreatNG: Proactive Management of File Inclusion Vulnerabilities

ThreatNG, with its combined EASM, DRP, and security ratings capabilities, offers a proactive approach to managing File Inclusion (FI) vulnerabilities. Here's how:

1. Proactive Identification:

• Inventory & Assessment: ThreatNG scans your external attack surface, including applications, login pages, and exposed admin panels. This comprehensive view helps identify potential entry points for FI attacks.

• Security Header Analysis: It analyzes using security headers like Content-Security-Policy (CSP). A well-configured CSP restricts the execution of unauthorized scripts, mitigating RFI vulnerabilities.

• Security Solution Assessment: ThreatNG checks for security solutions like Web Application Firewalls (WAFs), which can be configured to detect and block malicious FI attempts.

2. Web Application Hijacking Susceptibility:

• Exposed Admin Panels: ThreatNG identifies exposed admin panels, a prime target for attackers leveraging FI to gain unauthorized access or escalate privileges.

• Security Posture Assessment: It assesses the overall security posture of web applications, including outdated plugins or misconfigured settings, which can increase FI vulnerability risk.

3. Complementary Solutions and Handoff:

• Vulnerability Scanners: ThreatNG integrates with vulnerability scanners that perform deeper code analysis for FI vulnerabilities.

• Prioritization and Handoff: ThreatNG prioritizes vulnerabilities based on severity and potential impact. This information is then handed off to Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems for investigation and alerting.

• Development & Patching: Developers can leverage these findings to prioritize patching efforts and address critical FI vulnerabilities.

Example:

ThreatNG identifies an exposed login page where the login script constructs the file path based on user input (username). An attacker could inject malicious code into the username field, tricking the application into including a file containing unauthorized access scripts (RFI).

Benefits:

• Early Detection: ThreatNG helps identify vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them, enabling a proactive defense.

• Prioritized Remediation: Organizations can focus their resources on patching the most impactful issues by prioritizing critical vulnerabilities.

• Reduced Risk: ThreatNG mitigates FI vulnerabilities, strengthening your overall security posture and significantly reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. This reassurance is one of the key benefits of using ThreatNG.

Desired Business Outcomes:

• Enhanced Brand Reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to proactive security practices builds trust with customers and partners.

• Improved Regulatory Compliance: Meeting industry standards and regulations related to data security.

• Reduced Security Costs: Proactive management prevents costly data breaches and avoids potential regulatory fines.

ThreatNG acts as a central hub, empowering businesses to manage their external attack surface and mitigate FI vulnerabilities effectively. Its integration with complementary solutions facilitates a smooth handoff process, ensuring timely remediation and improved security posture.