📌 Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) Summary
Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) is a method of testing the security of a running application by simulating attacks from the outside, just like a hacker would. It works by scanning the application while it is operating to find vulnerabilities such as broken authentication, insecure data handling, or cross-site scripting. DAST tools do not require access to the application’s source code, instead interacting with the application through its user interface or APIs to identify weaknesses that could be exploited.
🙋🏻♂️ Explain Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) Simply
Imagine checking a locked door by trying to open it, pick the lock, or see if the windows are left open instead of just looking at the blueprint. DAST works in a similar way by actively probing a live application for security gaps rather than just reviewing its plans.
📅 How Can it be used?
DAST can be used to automatically scan a web application for vulnerabilities before it is released to users.
🗺️ Real World Examples
An e-commerce company uses DAST tools to scan their online shop during development and before each major update. The tool identifies a vulnerability where customer data could be exposed through a specific URL, allowing the security team to fix the issue before customers are put at risk.
A bank integrates DAST into its software development pipeline to automatically test each new version of its online banking portal. This helps catch and address security flaws related to user authentication and transaction processing before the website goes live.
✅ FAQ
What is Dynamic Application Security Testing and how does it work?
Dynamic Application Security Testing, or DAST, is a way to check how secure an application is while it is running. It works by simulating real-life attacks, much like a hacker would, to spot weaknesses such as poor authentication or unsafe data handling. The process does not involve looking at the code itself but instead tests the application through its interface or APIs to find any security gaps.
Why should businesses use DAST for their applications?
DAST helps businesses find security problems that could be missed if only the code is reviewed. Since it tests the application as it runs, DAST can uncover issues that only appear during real use. This means businesses can fix vulnerabilities before attackers find them, making their applications safer for users.
Can DAST find all types of security problems in an application?
DAST is very effective at finding certain types of security problems, especially those that can be exploited from outside the application, like broken authentication or cross-site scripting. However, it may not spot issues hidden deep in the code or problems that do not show up during normal use. For full coverage, it is often used alongside other security testing methods.
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🔗 External Reference Links
Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) link
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