Development ยท 14 min read
Secure Coding Practices for Web Developers
Build security into your development workflow
Essential security practices every developer should follow: input validation, authentication best practices, OWASP Top 10, and secure API design patterns.
- 70% vulns preventable
- OWASP 10 covered
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common security vulnerabilities in web applications?
The OWASP Top 10 includes: injection attacks (SQL, XSS), broken authentication, sensitive data exposure, XML external entities, broken access control, security misconfiguration, insecure deserialization, and insufficient logging.
How do I prevent SQL injection attacks?
Use parameterized queries or prepared statements, never concatenate user input into SQL, implement input validation, use ORM frameworks properly, apply principle of least privilege to database users, and regularly test with security scanners.
What is the principle of least privilege in secure coding?
Grant only the minimum permissions necessary for a function to operate. This applies to: database users, API tokens, file system access, network permissions, and user roles. Limits damage from compromised components.
How often should I update dependencies for security?
Monitor dependencies continuously with tools like Dependabot or Snyk. Apply critical security patches immediately, review and update monthly, and maintain a dependency inventory. Outdated dependencies are a leading cause of breaches.