XML Entity Injection Attack
XML Entity Injection Attack is a type of cyber attack that targets web applications which use XML or Extensible Markup Language. In simple terms, XML is a programming language that is used to store and transfer data between different systems. However, if an application is not properly secured or validated, it can be vulnerable to this kind of attack.
An XML Entity Injection Attack occurs when an attacker sends malicious data to a web application that can be executed as code. This means that the attacker can inject their own XML code into an existing XML document, which can cause the application to malfunction or reveal sensitive information.
For example, an attacker could replace the contents of an XML document with their own code or include malicious scripts that execute when the document is parsed. This could allow the attacker to steal sensitive data or take control of the vulnerable system.
To protect against XML Entity Injection Attacks, web developers must ensure that their XML applications properly validate all inputs and use secure coding practices. This means that applications should be designed to handle inputs that could potentially contain malicious code and not allow them to execute. Additionally, applications should be regularly tested for vulnerabilities to ensure they remain secure.
In conclusion, XML Entity Injection Attack is a serious threat that can lead to data theft or system compromise. It is important for web developers to be aware of this threat and take necessary steps to prevent it.