Common Sensitive Files Exposed in Web Apps

In the world of web development and security, it is crucial to ensure that sensitive files are properly secured. Exposing sensitive files can significantly increase the vulnerability of your web application and provide attackers with valuable insights into the infrastructure, database, or even allow them to execute malicious activities. This article highlights some of the common sensitive files that should be properly secured or kept hidden to avoid unnecessary risks.

Common Sensitive Files in Web Applications

Here is a list of potential sensitive files that, if exposed, can lead to significant security vulnerabilities in web applications:

Sensitive Files

1. /.gitignore
2. /php.ini
3. /cgi-bin/pass.txt
4. /.htaccess
5. /phpinfo.php
6. /db.php
7. /adminer.php
8. /.env
9. /.svn
10. /.git
11. /phpinfo
12. /apc.php

Apache Tomcat Sample Files

Tomcat often includes sample files that may be unintentionally exposed, providing attackers with insights into the application’s structure and potential vulnerabilities. Below is a list of Apache Tomcat sample files that can pose security risks if exposed:

1. /examples/jsp/num/numguess.jsp
2. /examples/jsp/dates/date.jsp
3. /examples/jsp/snp/snoop.jsp
4. /examples/jsp/error/error.html
5. /examples/jsp/sessions/carts.html
6. /examples/jsp/checkbox/check.html
7. /examples/jsp/colors/colors.html
8. /examples/jsp/cal/login.html
9. /examples/jsp/include/include.jsp
10. /examples/jsp/forward/forward.jsp
11. /examples/jsp/plugin/plugin.jsp
12. /examples/jsp/jsptoserv/jsptoservlet.jsp
13. /examples/jsp/simpletag/foo.jsp
14. /examples/jsp/mail/sendmail.jsp
15. /examples/servlet/HelloWorldExample
16. /examples/servlet/RequestInfoExample
17. /examples/servlet/RequestHeaderExample
18. /examples/servlet/RequestParamExample
19. /examples/servlet/CookieExample
20. /examples/servlet/JndiServlet
21. /examples/servlet/SessionExample
22. /tomcat-docs/appdev/sample/web/hello.jsp

Possible Log Files

Log files often contain critical information that can help attackers analyze application behavior, errors, and vulnerabilities. Below is a list of possible log files that should be secured:

1. /WS_FTP.LOG
2. /storage/logs/laravel.log
3. /npm-debug.log

Possible Configuration Files

Configuration files store essential settings for web applications, including database credentials, API keys, and server configurations. If exposed, these files can be exploited by attackers. Here’s a list of possible configuration files that should be protected:

1. /WEB-INF/web.xml
2. /web.config
3. /wp-config.php~
4. /wp-config.php
5. /Symfony databases.yml
6. /config/databases.yml

Possible Documentation Files

Documentation files provide insight into the structure and functionality of an application. While they are useful during development, exposing them to the public can reveal critical information to potential attackers. Below is a list of documentation files that should remain hidden:

1. /readme.txt
2. /changelog.txt
3. /readme.md
4. /readme.html

Conclusion

Web application security requires careful attention to the potential exposure of sensitive files. Many files, such as configuration files, log files, and documentation, can leak important details about your application’s structure, environment, and credentials. Exposing these files, whether by mistake or due to poor security practices, can result in significant vulnerabilities. It’s essential to secure these files, limit public access, and employ best practices to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your web applications.

By keeping track of the files listed above and ensuring they are not exposed, you can significantly reduce the attack surface of your application and improve its overall security posture.