Less Common Web Vulnerabilities
Tags: penetrationtesting, ethicalhacking, appsec
Published: 2023-08-23 21:58:22

### Exploiting Type Juggling Vulnerabilities in PHP

One of the most common web server vulnerabilities to watch out for is the infamous type juggling in PHP. Type juggling allows PHP to automatically convert a data type based on the context in which a variable is used. However, it's crucial to understand that this feature can be exploited maliciously. Misusing this feature, an attacker can coerce type conversions to bypass authentication or validation mechanisms, thereby breaching your web application's security. I highly recommend [this deep dive into exploiting type juggling vulnerabilities in PHP](https://guidedhacking.com/threads/exploiting-type-juggling-vulnerabilities-in-php.19784/). It breaks down the complexity of the issue and gives code-level insights to mitigate the risks.

Further, this article excels in providing a hands-on approach. Through code samples and explanations, it takes you through various ways in which type juggling can be exploited. Having this knowledge not only enhances your defense mechanisms but also gives you a broader understanding of how PHP's features can sometimes turn into liabilities.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/9fxbw8udjyoo4lc33ybh.png)

### NoSQL Injection Attacks

New database software like Couchbase and Cassandra introduces a different set of vulns when compared to the past 15 years of databases. Traditional SQL injection attacks dont't work but they are NOT immune to injection attacks. NoSQL injection attacks target flaws in the database's architecture to read, modify, or even delete data. The article [NoSQL Injection Attacks Explained](https://guidedhacking.com/threads/nosql-injection-attacks-explained.19792/) offers a comprehensive view of these attacks and suggests countermeasures.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/jypidkk2ypjpcy21kv76.png)

In a highly elucidative manner, the article delves into the anatomy of a NoSQL injection attack. It also discusses countermeasures like parameterized queries and secure coding practices. When you're dealing with NoSQL databases, understanding these specific vulnerabilities is critical for fortifying your web application.

### Prototype Pollution Attacks

When JavaScript is in play, especially with the use of popular libraries like Lodash and jQuery, prototype pollution attacks become a significant concern. The attack focuses on altering an object's prototype, often leading to Denial of Service (DoS) or even arbitrary code execution. For those who wish to get a technical grasp of this attack vector, [An Introduction to Prototype Pollution Attacks](https://guidedhacking.com/threads/an-introduction-to-prototype-pollution-attacks.19789/) is a vital read.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/sfq36nf6awcbj55beohv.png)

The article provides a granular approach to understanding how prototype pollution attacks work and how they can be mitigated. Detailed code examples illustrate how these vulnerabilities can be exploited and what defensive measures can be put in place. Knowledge about prototype pollution is invaluable, especially when relying on JavaScript libraries in your project.

### PHP Deserialization Attacks

PHP's deserialization function can be manipulated to perform actions that aren't intended, such as instantiating objects or even executing malicious code. Serialized objects, when incorrectly handled, can lead to numerous security issues. The article titled [PHP Deserialization Attack for Noobs](https://guidedhacking.com/threads/php-deserialization-attack-for-noobs.19759/) gives a beginner-friendly yet highly informative look into this vulnerability.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/m1s9hglqsq4sz70c7si2.png)

What sets this article apart is its emphasis on simplifying a complex concept without sacrificing technical rigor. You'll walk through the entire process of how PHP's deserialization can be subverted to compromise a system. Learning about PHP deserialization vulnerabilities can be invaluable, especially for developers who regularly work with object-oriented programming in PHP.

### Summing Up

Server vulnerabilities extend far beyond what's commonly discussed in beginner's guides or basic tutorials. They range from type juggling vulnerabilities in PHP to NoSQL and prototype pollution attacks. Additionally, with the prevalent use of PHP, understanding deserialization vulnerabilities becomes a cornerstone in robust web security. Continually staying updated with deep, technically-precise resources is a surefire way to fortify your web applications against these ever-evolving threats.