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Top Five Vulnerabilities Attackers Use Against Browsers

  • Top Five Vulnerabilities Attackers Use Against Browsers-

    Code execution exploits in plug-ins

    Plug-ins are probably the most well-known vector for drive-by downloads (attacks that silently download and run native code on your system). From Flash to Silverlight to Java, even plug-ins from large, reputable vendors have been repeatedly found to have vulnerabilities used in malware attacks. Like browser exploits, vulnerabilities of this type are typically patched by vendors in short order, but outdated copies of browser plug-ins far outnumber the updated ones.

    Ways to avoid: Keep your plug-ins updated, and uninstall plug-ins and extensions that you don't use. Browsers are getting better at warning users about outdated plug-ins, so don't ignore the warnings.

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Top Five Vulnerabilities Attackers Use Against Browsers

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  • Top Five Vulnerabilities Attackers Use Against Browsers-3

    Code execution exploits in plug-ins

    Plug-ins are probably the most well-known vector for drive-by downloads (attacks that silently download and run native code on your system). From Flash to Silverlight to Java, even plug-ins from large, reputable vendors have been repeatedly found to have vulnerabilities used in malware attacks. Like browser exploits, vulnerabilities of this type are typically patched by vendors in short order, but outdated copies of browser plug-ins far outnumber the updated ones.

    Ways to avoid: Keep your plug-ins updated, and uninstall plug-ins and extensions that you don't use. Browsers are getting better at warning users about outdated plug-ins, so don't ignore the warnings.

Web browsers are the primary target for many attackers these days, because so much sensitive data passes through them. From casual shopping to enterprise management systems to military operations, browsers have become the primary vehicle people use to access network-connected systems. Unfortunately, browsers have a long and storied history of vulnerabilities that have provided attackers with a lucrative and near-endless supply of victims upon which to prey. Quarri Technologies, Inc., a Web information security software company, has identified some of the top vulnerabilities attackers use against browsers.

Note: This slideshow is focused on browser vulnerabilities, not website vulnerabilities (SQL injection attacks, XSS, XSRF, et al). The distinction is subtle but important.