It would probably be very hard for many of us to even imagine that a method of cyber-attack that discovered as long back as twenty years ago by Microsoft engineers would still be prevalent and much preferred for attacking cyber-security, even. However, that is most certainly the case when it comes to XSS or Cross-Site Scripting, as this method of attack is commonly known. 

Ranked number 7th by malware watchers on OWASP’s list of the Top Ten Website Vulnerabilities in 2017 and featured among the 25 dangerous software weaknesses listed by the Common Weakness Enumeration Group by MITRE, this method of cyber-attack has certainly withstood the test of time and to this day, continues to be ever popular among hackers and cyber-terrorists to wreak havoc on the web.

The way that the XSS cyber-attack works are by inserting a certain code into its web pages of whatever website the attacker has homed onto and targeted, so as to enable it to load content from various other domains and sites, be it in the form of an SQL injection, a malicious login page or web cookies that possess the capability to load all kinds of malware. The user, deceived, ends up unwittingly setting the ball in motion for this vicious cycle to start by clicking on a malicious link, and eventually ends up losing all control over their PC to the attacker who takes a hold of it remotely, and maybe even reveal their password to the attacker without meaning to do so. 

Are you concerned about your cyber-security and the risk cyber-attacks like XSS pose to you? Well, you should be. However, that being said, here are a few things you can do to minimize such risk and protect yourself against cyber-attacks. 

Phishing, hacking, and malware incidents are becoming the number one cause of security breaches today. But, what’s more troubling, these hacking attempts are the result of human errors in some way. Awareness and education are critically vital in the fight against cybercriminal activity and preventing security breaches. 

1. For starters, you could bolster and fortify your browsing security by making use of an Anti-Virus protection software. It blocks malware and other malicious viruses from entering the device and compromising your information. 
2. Also, go for a firewall as it is also important when defending your data against malicious attacks. It helps screen out viruses, hackers, and other malicious activity that occurs over the Internet and determines what traffic is allowed to enter the device. Mac OS X and Windows come with respective firewalls, aptly named Mac Firewall and Windows Firewall. Your router should also have a firewall built in to prevent attacks on your network. 
3. Next, you must follow a regular regimen of cleansing your input by following the cycle of filtering, validating, encoding, and escaping mechanisms and tactics in order to stop unverified user input from being executed or implemented on the web application. 
4. Another simple precaution that you can take to protect your cyber-security is to opt for something else instead of “admin” as the login credentials for your website. Also, make use of two-factor or multi-factor authentication. This is a service that adds additional layers of security to the standard password method of online identification. With two-factor, you would be prompted to enter one extra authentication method such as a Personal Identification Code, another password, or even fingerprint. With multi-factor authentication, you would be prompted to enter more than two additional authentication methods for entering your password and username. 
5. Last but not least, do make sure to use a multi-level verification and authentication process for extra protection from cyber threats. 

We hope you found these personal cybersecurity tips helpful in mitigating your risk from a security incident. If you are looking for professional expertise and guidance to fortify and improve your cybersecurity and protect yourself against cyberattacks by hackers and cyber terrorists, well, look no further because SPARK Services has got you covered. We can help you with any and all of your web, computer, and voice needs, using the latest technology and resources, and all this without burning a hole in your pocket. Reach out to us today! Rest assured that your security is our priority!