Local File Inclusion (LFI)
Local File Inclusion (LFI) is a type of security vulnerability that occurs in web applications. In simple terms, LFI allows an attacker to read files on a web server that they shouldn’t be able to access.
Here’s an example: Let’s say you’re using a web application that allows you to view a file on the server. To view the file, the application reads the contents of the file and displays it on the screen. However, the application doesn’t properly secure the code that reads the file, so an attacker is able to manipulate the code and request a file that they shouldn’t have access to.
For instance, if the attacker requests a file that contains passwords, they can use that information to gain access to other parts of the server or even other servers on the network.
In order to prevent LFI attacks, it’s important to make sure that web applications are properly secured and that code is thoroughly checked for vulnerabilities. Additionally, access to sensitive information should be restricted so that even if an attacker is able to exploit LFI vulnerabilities, they won’t be able to gain access to sensitive data.