12 Most Frequently Exploited Vulnerabilities in 2022

In the realm of cybersecurity, vulnerabilities are a constant threat to the security and integrity of systems. Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) plays a vital role in identifying and mitigating these threats. Here are the 12 most frequently exploited vulnerabilities in 2022, along with relevant technical terms:

1. SQL Injection

SQL injection is a type of vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious SQL code into a web application's database, allowing them to access and manipulate sensitive data.

2. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)

XSS is a vulnerability that enables an attacker to inject malicious JavaScript code into a website, which can then be executed by the user's browser, potentially leading to data theft or system compromise.

3. Buffer Overflow

A buffer overflow occurs when a program writes more data to a buffer than it is designed to hold, causing the extra data to spill over into adjacent memory areas, potentially allowing an attacker to execute malicious code.

4. Clickjacking

Clickjacking is a type of attack that tricks users into clicking on invisible elements or hidden links, often by using HTML and CSS to manipulate the user interface.

5. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)

Cross-site request forgery occurs when an attacker tricks a user into performing an unintended action on a website, often by manipulating HTTP requests.

6. Command Injection

Command injection allows an attacker to inject malicious system commands into a web application's code, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary system commands and access sensitive data.

7. File Inclusion Vulnerability

A file inclusion vulnerability occurs when a web application includes files from external sources without proper validation, allowing an attacker to access and manipulate sensitive data.

8. Authentication Bypass

Authentication bypass occurs when an attacker is able to gain unauthorized access to a system or application by exploiting vulnerabilities in the authentication process.

9. Privilege Escalation

Privilege escalation occurs when an attacker gains elevated privileges on a system or application, potentially allowing them to execute malicious code and access sensitive data.

10. Remote Code Execution (RCE)

Remote code execution allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a remote system or application, often by exploiting vulnerabilities in the application's software or configuration.

11. Directory Traversal

Directory traversal occurs when an attacker is able to navigate through directories and access sensitive data or files without proper authorization.

12. Session Hijacking

Session hijacking allows an attacker to steal or take control of a user's session, potentially allowing them to access sensitive data or systems.

By understanding these frequently exploited vulnerabilities, organizations can implement effective countermeasures and improve their overall cybersecurity posture using Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) techniques.