Introduction
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) [2] [3] [4], identified as CWE-79 [1] [3] [4], has emerged as the most critical software vulnerability of 2024. This finding is based on the annual Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) list, compiled by MITRE and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) [1] [3]. The list highlights the prevalence and impact of various software vulnerabilities.
Description
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) [2] [3] [4], also known as CWE-79, has been identified as the most dangerous and common software vulnerability of 2024, according to the annual Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) list compiled by MITRE and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) [3]. This year’s ranking is based on approximately 31,000 vulnerabilities reported between June 1, 2023 [2] [4], and June 1, 2024 [2] [4], utilizing a scoring formula that considers both the frequency of each vulnerability and its potential impact when exploited [4]. XSS allows attackers to inject malicious code into websites or web applications [2] [4], which is then executed in the victim’s browser [2] [4], facilitating the theft of cookies, session tokens [4], and other sensitive information [4]. Following XSS, the other top vulnerabilities include SQL injection (CWE-89), cross-site request forgery (CSRF [2] [3] [4], CWE-352) [3], which notably rose from ninth place in 2023 to fourth in 2024 [3], and path traversal (CWE-22) [2] [3]. The persistence of these vulnerabilities in the top rankings underscores the ongoing need for organizations to prioritize secure coding practices and conduct thorough testing, as these weaknesses are often attributed to unsafe programming practices. The CWE library, funded by CISA [1], aims to uncover the root causes of defects in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) list [1], which is essential for effective vulnerability management and the development of robust software security strategies. The complete top 25 list is available on MITRE’s website [2], providing further insights into the landscape of software vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The continued prominence of vulnerabilities such as XSS, SQL injection [2] [3] [4], and CSRF in the CWE rankings highlights the critical need for organizations to adopt secure coding practices and rigorous testing protocols. Addressing these vulnerabilities is essential for safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring robust software security. As the landscape of software vulnerabilities evolves, organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in their security strategies to mitigate potential threats effectively. The insights provided by the CWE list serve as a valuable resource for understanding and addressing the root causes of software vulnerabilities, ultimately contributing to the development of more secure software systems.
References
[1] https://insidecybersecurity.com/daily-news/cisa-mitre-raise-alarm-bells-cross-site-scripting-annual-list-dangerous-software
[2] https://tweakers.net/nieuws/228956/cross-site-scripting-staat-bovenaan-mitres-top-25-van-kwetsbaarheden.html
[3] https://www.darkreading.com/application-security/cross-site-scripting-is-2024-most-dangerous-software-weakness
[4] https://www.security.nl/posting/866522/MITRE%3A+cross-site+scripting+gevaarlijkste+kwetsbaarheid+van+2024
