1. Proper Input Validation:
This is the process of ensuring that all inputs provided to a program or system are valid, secure and free from malicious code such as viruses or trojans. Developers must validate each input against a specific set of parameters or type-checking rules before allowing it to be processed by the program. A proper validation system will also prevent buffer overflow attacks and other vulnerabilities.
2. Authentication & Authorization:
Authentication is the process of verifying a user's identity through credentials such as passwords, digital certificates or biometric data. Authorization involves granting permissions to an authenticated user based on their role within the system. It is important that authentication and authorization protocols are implemented correctly in order to prevent unauthorized access and malicious activities.
3. Data Encryption & Storage Security:
Data encryption is used to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access by encoding it so that it can only be decoded by authorized personnel with the correct key or passphrase. In addition, all data stored in databases should be encrypted using strong algorithms such as AES or Twofish. Storage security involves implementing measures such as access control lists and data backups to ensure that data is not altered or lost in the event of a disaster.
4. Error Handling & Logging:
Error handling refers to the process of trapping and logging errors so they can be addressed quickly and efficiently, while logging consists of recording events within a system for future reference. This information can then be used to troubleshoot problems or investigate incidents of malicious activity.
5. Secure Configuration Management:
Secure configuration management is the practice of controlling, monitoring and auditing changes made to a software application's settings or configuration files over time. It ensures that any unauthorized modifications are detected and remedied quickly before they can be exploited by attackers.
6. Access Control Lists (ACLs):
Access control lists are used to restrict access to certain areas of a system or application based on user roles and permissions. By setting up an appropriate ACL, organizations can ensure that confidential data is only accessible to authorized personnel.
7. Code Reviews:
Code reviews involve examining source code for common coding errors such as buffer overflows, SQL injections and other vulnerabilities which could be exploited by malicious actors. A thorough code review process should also include security best practices such as proper input validation and authentication protocols.
8. Secure Backups & Disaster Recovery Planning:
Creating regular backups of important data is essential in the event of a disaster or system failure. Secure backups should be encrypted using strong algorithms and stored off-site in a safe location. Disaster recovery planning involves creating strategies for recovering from disasters such as fires, floods, and cyber attacks.
9. Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS):
An IDS/IPS is a system designed to detect malicious activity on a network by analyzing packets sent over the network looking for suspicious patterns, while an IPS blocks all incoming traffic that matches predetermined signatures. By implementing an IDS/IPS, organizations can reduce the risk of external threats such as hackers or malware infiltrating their networks.
10. Penetration Testing:
Penetration testing is the practice of deliberately attempting to breach the security of a system or application in order to identify and remediate potential vulnerabilities. By regularly conducting penetration tests, organizations can ensure that their systems are held up to the highest standards of security.
11. Security Auditing & Monitoring:
Organizations should regularly audit their security systems to ensure that all measures are in place and up-to-date. In addition, ongoing monitoring of the system should be conducted to detect any suspicious activity or malicious attempts at accessing confidential data. This can help identify potential threats before they become a problem.
12. Secure Network Architecture Design:
Secure network architecture design involves creating a secure and efficient layout for the organization’s IT infrastructure, including the selection of appropriate hardware and software systems. This ensures that all systems are properly protected against external threats while maintaining performance.
13. Security Awareness Training:
Security awareness training is the practice of educating staff members on how to identify and respond to potential security threats. This can include topics such as password management, phishing prevention and social engineering techniques. By having a well-trained workforce, organizations can reduce their risk of becoming victims of cyber attacks or data breaches.