Implementing CSRF and SSL is crucial for enhancing the security of our applications. Below is my understanding on the topic, which serves as proof of comprehension. I welcome any corrections to my understanding.
CSRF Tokens are commonly utilized in secure applications.
Understanding How Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) works :
Imagine you are logged into your bank account (e.g., SBI or JPMC) and browsing through your accounts or simply have it open in your browser while attending to other tasks. Suddenly, you receive an email with possibly malicious content that triggers a GET/PUT/POST request from your browser without your knowledge. It's important to note that CSRF cannot access information from your secure webpage because encrypted pages under SSL prevent such access. Additionally, CSRF cannot steal your login credentials or uncover the hidden CSRF token within secure websites due to encryption. Instead, it operates after your authentication with the website, sending requests that deceive the server into thinking they originate from your authenticated browser, leading the server to act accordingly.
During a CSRF attack, hackers trick browsers into sending unauthorized URLs:
<img src="https://www.bankWebsite.com/transfer?amount=1000&destination=8990">
As a result, without your awareness, a request is sent from your authenticated session instructing a transfer of $1000 to account number 8990, resulting in a quick loss of funds.
Protecting Yourself Against CSRF:
There are several ways to safeguard against CSRF attacks:
1) Validating the request's origin from the header
2) Verifying the target of the request
3) Utilizing CSRF tokens
Functioning of CSRF Token Protection:
The CSRF token is typically found in the header or cookie. When a hacker manipulates the browser into sending a nefarious request, the token exists solely in the header instead of the submitted form. Upon verifying if the received CSRF token matches that from the form or request, the server can identify any discrepancies, flagging it as an attack and halting further penetration.
I invite feedback on whether my grasp of CSRF attacks and their protection is accurate. Furthermore, does this imply that effective implementation of SSL is indispensable for mitigating CSRF risks?