3 of the Most Common Python Security Vulnerabilities

Python is one of the fastest-growing programming languages in the world. According to Slashdata, there are 8.2 million active python users in the world. It is mostly used by Software Engineers but also by Mathematicians, Data Analysts, and students for various purposes like automation, artificial intelligence, big data analysis, and for investment schemes by the fintech companies. However, regardless of what computer language you use, the language is never secure on its own. It entirely depends on how you use the language. The same applies when it comes to Python, which is why Python Security is highly essential.

But, before we go there, let’s talk about what Python is.

What is Python?

Unlike other programming languages, Python is a general-purpose coding language. You can use it for other types of programming and software development, aside from web development. It is highly readable as it uses English keywords when other programming languages use punctuation. It also has fewer syntactical construction than the other language.

What are the benefits of Python?

Open Source

Python is an open-source programming language. Even the source codes for python are freely available to download and distribute for commercial use.

Easy to Use and Learn

With features like faster execution, readability, and code clarity provides a seamless experience.

Interpreted Language

The source code in python syntax as a whole is interpreted line by line at one go.

Numerous Libraries and Frameworks

Rich in libraries and frameworks, it supports web development, data science, and machine learning, therefore increasing the programmer’s productivity.

Helpful Communities

Python is more than 30 years old and has a more matured community of developers and users as compared to any programming language

Cross-Platform Integration

It has powerful control capabilities as it can invoke directly through C, C++, or Java. Python also processes XML and other markup languages with the same byte code.

Python is a top-notch programming language for aspirants with a technical and non-technical background. They can immediately start coding as it is like learning how to read and write.

How do developers use Python?

Python developers have the highest paid salaries in the IT industry. The average Python Developer salary in the United States is approximately $79,395 per year. Python can be effective in a myriad of areas, a few of which are:

1. Web-Development

2. Game Development

3. Data Science and Data Virtualization

4. Business Application

5. Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

6. Big Data

7. GUI Desktop

Due to Python’s competence, it’s used in the areas mentioned above and in web-scraping applications, audio and video applications, cad applications, embedded applications, testing frameworks, and automating tasks.

The Most Common Python-based Security Threats

While Python is extremely helpful and widely used, it is not 100% secure from cyber threats like any scripting language. In fact, one of the most common is Python backdoor attacks. For example, Iran used a MechaFlounder Python backdoor attack against Turkey last year.

Here are some of the most common Python-based risks:

1. Input Injection

Some of the more popular injection attacks are SQL injection attacks and command injection attacks. These types of attacks can impact not just the language but the environment as a whole.

2. Parsing XML

It’s normal for files to load and parse XML files if you are in the habit of using an XML standard library module, especially external XML files. Most of these attacks are DoS and DDoS styled attacks that aim to crash the system instead of infiltrating it.

3. Temp Files

Testing a file is always good; however, beware of creating temp files using the mltemp() function as a different process may also create a file with this name to attempt to load the wrong data or expose other temporary data.

How to Secure Your Digital Ecosystem from Python-based Vulnerabilities?

It has become important to secure your network and data with the increase in data breaches regularly.

Here are some ways you can ensure Python security:

1. Always use the latest version of Python

2. Use a virtual environment when installing new packages

3. Never commit anything with a password or API key in it

4. Double-check your code for any malicious material

5. Beware of SQL injections

6. Always keep your server updated

However, if you are looking for a more detailed approach to Python security, take a look at EC-Council’s Microdegree program.

Source: eccouncil.org