Since many e-commerce software systems rely on the use of databases to store critical information, a database attack can be particularly annoying and compromise the entire use of your platform.
An SQL injection attack can usually exploit small code errors to give full access to restricted areas of your server.
One of the most common features of modern e-commerce systems is the complete automation of the purchasing process, from the initial visit to payment.
Some e-commerce software may have a vulnerability that allows the hacker to enter a lower price, change the shipping address or change important parameters for the purpose of the purchase.
Many e-commerce sites require users to use some type of authentication, usually to sign up for membership and log in for each subsequent purchase. Ideally, these authentication sessions must go through SSL encryption; otherwise, an attacker could collect sensitive information over the web.
Like SQL injection, cross-site scripting is an attack method used by all types of dynamic websites.
Using XSS, an attacker could set up a phishing scheme to steal sensitive user data, including credit card numbers.
Pages written in Perl or PHP could be vulnerable to attack by simply inserting shell meta characters in a URL during the purchase process, interrupting it or allowing access to the system.
A good way to prevent this type of attack is to run scans to test the global vulnerability of the product or to keep an updated version of the application.
Finally, be sure to take all basic security precautions: use SSL, keep a secure password, and use a firewall.
