Common Authentication Weaknesses

Password-based authentication, despite its known weaknesses, remains the primary authentication method for most applications. Common failures include allowing weak passwords, not implementing account lockout mechanisms, using predictable password reset tokens, or storing passwords using reversible encryption. Each represents a fundamental failure to protect user identities. It's like using locks that can be picked with a paperclip.

Session management introduces another set of vulnerabilities. Applications that don't properly invalidate sessions on logout, use predictable session identifiers, or transmit session tokens insecurely enable session hijacking attacks. Consider a hotel that doesn't change room locks between guests—previous guests could still access rooms. Similarly, improper session management allows attackers to reuse old credentials or steal active sessions.