Unauthorized access to a user's session after they have authenticated.
Description
Session hijacking is a type of cyber attack where an attacker takes control of a user's session after they have successfully logged in to a web application. This can occur through various methods, including stealing cookies, exploiting vulnerabilities in the application, or using man-in-the-middle attacks. Once the attacker gains access, they can perform actions as if they were the legitimate user, potentially leading to data theft, unauthorized transactions, or even identity theft. Session hijacking is particularly dangerous because it can be difficult to detect, and users often remain unaware that their session has been compromised. To mitigate this risk, organizations should implement secure session management practices, such as using HTTPS, regenerating session IDs after login, and setting appropriate session timeouts. Regular security audits and user education on recognizing phishing attempts can also help in preventing these attacks.
Examples
- The 2013 Yahoo data breach, where attackers hijacked sessions to access user accounts.
- The 2018 Ticketmaster incident, where attackers used session hijacking techniques to steal payment information.
Additional Information
- Session hijacking can be executed through various techniques like session fixation and cross-site scripting (XSS).
- Preventive measures include using secure cookies, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA), and monitoring for unusual login activity.