Broken authentication occurs when attackers exploit weaknesses in an application's authentication process to gain unauthorized access to accounts or sensitive information. This vulnerability is consistently featured in the OWASP Top 10 list of web application security risks. Common causes include weak password policies, lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA), and improper session management. For instance, without MFA, attackers can easily compromise accounts with stolen credentials. Additionally, session management flaws can lead to session hijacking, where an attacker takes over a user’s session and gains control of their account. portnox.com
To prevent broken authentication, organizations should implement strong security measures such as enforcing MFA, establishing robust password policies, and ensuring secure session management. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide at least two authentication factors before accessing their accounts. Enforcing strong password policies, including complex passwords and regular updates, can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Secure session management practices, such as using short session expiration times and implementing logout mechanisms that invalidate session tokens, are also crucial. By adopting these measures, organizations can enhance their security posture and protect against broken authentication attacks. portnox.com