Insights-as-a-Service

In this technological era, signing into various online services and accounts is a regular activity. Each time we login into any web service, a session is created. The most straightforward way to describe what a session is is to say that it is when two systems communicate with each other. This will keep working until the user stops communicating. This is called a session that the user started.

What is Session Hijacking?

Session hijacking is a method for cyber attackers to gain access to the system or log in details of their targets. During a session hijacking attack, an attacker takes over a user's browsing session to get their private information and login details. There are multiple entry points through which a session hijacker can take over a user's session.

Session hijacking arises because of a vulnerability in managing a user's online session. When you log into a website, it gives you a special "session cookie" that is like a VIP pass—it tells the site that you are who you say you are. However, if a hacker can get their hands on your VIP pass, they can pretend to be you on the site. Here is why it happens:

●      Vulnerable Web Sessions: When you log into a site without proper security (like using public Wi-Fi without a secure connection), you are like someone leaving their house with the door unlocked and the key on the porch. It's easy for a hacker to slip in.

●      Stealing Session Cookies: Hackers have tricks to snatch your session cookie. They could be lurking on the same network or trick you into clicking a malicious link that gives away your session key. It's like someone copying your house key and walking right in.

●      Exploiting the Hijacked Session: Once the hacker has your session key, they can do all sorts of things in your name—like emptying your bank account, shopping with your credit card, or stealing your personal info.

How to Prevent Session Hijacking?

Session hijacking can be prevented by enhancing the security mechanisms in web applications. Some precautions against session hijacking are outlined below.

1. Using HTTPS

Using HTTPS ensures SSL encryption during session traffic. Even if attackers monitor users, they cannot capture their information and login details.

2. Using Multi-Factor Authentication

Utilizing multi-factor authentication lets us add extra security layers to the usual way of logging in online with a login and password.

Multi-factor authentication lets you add more ways to demonstrate your identity to your accounts, like a password, PIN, token, verification code sent by text or email, biometrics, etc.

3. Don’t Open Links from Untrusted Sources

When people visit malicious websites or open malicious email attachments, they unwittingly spread malware. Use caution when forwarding links or making requests to websites because they may contain session identifiers.

4. Use VPN

Using a VPN while linking your device to public Wi-Fi creates a secure channel that cloaks your device's communication with the server, safeguarding your data. It keeps attackers from getting into your devices and keeps people from getting to your details.

5. Taking Cybersecurity Training

Staying abreast of the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape is essential, as it's important to be aware of the latest security vulnerabilities and how to defend against them. Consider obtaining credentials in areas like ethical hacking, incident response, and penetration testing to protect your organization's data better.

How can InfosecTrain Help?

InfosecTrain's CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) training courses teach professionals  about session hijacking. These courses cover key areas such as secure session management, the use of HTTPS and VPNs, multi-factor authentication, and the threats of untrusted sources. These training courses ensure that individuals are well-prepared to identify and defend against session hijacking threats, safeguarding both personal and organizational data effectively.