Protecting Your Web Applications: How to Prevent Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore what CSRF is, how it works, the different forms it can take, the damage it can cause, and, most importantly, how to prevent it. We’ll also look at how Secuodsoft, a CMMI Level 3 certified IT services and consulting firm, integrates CSRF protection into its secure development lifecycle to safeguard client applications.

1. Protecting Your Web Applications: How to
Prevent Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)

2. In the ever-evolving world of web security, one threat that
continues to catch developers off guard is Cross-Site
Request Forgery (CSRF). Despite being less flashy than SQL
injections or XSS attacks, CSRF is just as dangerous—
especially when overlooked in the development of modern
web applications. If not properly mitigated, a CSRF attack
can trick a user’s browser into executing unauthorized
commands, compromising data and user trust.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore what CSRF is, how it
works, the different forms it can take, the damage it can
cause, and, most importantly, how to prevent it. We’ll also
look at how Secuodsoft, a CMMI Level 3 certified IT
services and consulting firm, integrates CSRF protection
into its secure development lifecycle to safeguard client
applications. Introduction
252-253, 9th St, Unit 3,
Kharvela Nagar,
Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751001
Phone: [phone]

3. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is a type of malicious exploit where unauthorized
commands are transmitted from a user that the web application trusts. This typically
occurs when a logged-in user unknowingly performs an action on a web application in
which they are authenticated, without their intent or awareness.
Introduction to CSRF
Types of CSRF Attacks
For example, a victim logged into their banking site might be tricked into clicking a hidden
link on a malicious site, causing their browser to initiate a fund transfer request—without
them even realizing it.
What makes CSRF dangerous is that it takes advantage of a user's authenticated session.
Since the request comes from a legitimate browser and session, the application believes
the action is valid.

4. Phone: [phone]
252-253, 9th St, Unit 3,
Kharvela Nagar, Bhubaneswar,
Odisha 751001
CSRF attacks can vary based on execution methods and application vulnerabilities. Here
are some common types:
GET-Based CSRF: The attacker tricks the user into making a GET request with malicious
query parameters.
POST-Based CSRF: More dangerous than GET-based, POST attacks often perform
actions like updating profiles or submitting forms.
Stored CSRF: The malicious payload is stored on the server (like a comment field) and
executed later when another user views it.
Login CSRF: Forces the victim’s browser to log in to an account controlled by the
attacker, leading to session fixation.
Multistep CSRF: Attacks that require multiple sequential requests to complete a
complex transaction (e.g., purchase workflows).
How CSRF Works

5. Here’s a simplified step-by-step breakdown:
The user logs into a web application (e.g., their bank account) and keeps the session
active.
While logged in, the user visits a malicious website containing hidden forms or scripts.
That site automatically submits a request (GET/POST) to the victim’s bank using the stored
session cookie.
The bank processes the request as if the user intentionally submitted it.
Since cookies are automatically included with every request, the server assumes the request
is valid. This is what makes CSRF both stealthy and dangerous.
The impact of a successful CSRF attack depends on the privileges of the targeted user, but
typical consequences include:
Unauthorized Actions: Change passwords, update email addresses, make purchases.
Fraudulent Transactions: Trigger money transfers or purchase orders.
Spam Generation: Trigger email campaigns or auto-post content.
Admin Compromise: If an admin is targeted, the attacker may gain system-wide control.
Brand Reputation Damage: Loss of user trust, media backlash, and legal consequences.
Impact of CSRF Attacks

6. Phone: [phone] Prevention Methods & Best Practices
Use Anti-CSRF Tokens
SameSite Cookie Attribute
Double Submit Cookies
Protecting against CSRF requires a combination of server-side and client-side defenses. Here
are the most effective methods:
Include a unique token (e.g., synchronizer token pattern) in each form/request.
Validate the token on the server before processing any state-changing action.
Set cookies with SameSite=Strict or Lax to prevent browsers from sending them on
cross-site requests.
This simple attribute significantly reduces the risk of CSRF.
Send the CSRF token both in a cookie and in the request header. If the two don’t match,
reject the request.

7. Custom Headers with JavaScript
User Interaction Confirmations
Logout and Expiration Policies
Testing for CSRF Vulnerabilities
Require requests to include a custom header (e.g., X-Requested-With) which normal
cross-site form posts can’t send.
Add confirmation dialogs for critical actions (like transfers or deletions) to prevent
silent execution.
Expire sessions after inactivity and always offer a secure logout to reduce session
lifespan.
Security testing is crucial for identifying CSRF flaws before attackers can exploit them.
Here’s how professionals test for CSRF:

8. Check for State-Changing Requests: Identify which endpoints perform actions (e.g.,
POST to /change-password).
Replay Requests Without Tokens: Try re-submitting those requests without
authentication tokens.
Inspect Forms: Check HTML forms and AJAX calls to confirm if CSRF tokens are
embedded.
Use Tools: Tools like OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite, or CSRFTester can simulate attacks and
detect vulnerable endpoints.
Manual Code Review: Identify missing token verification logic or overly permissive
CORS settings.
At Secuodsoft, cybersecurity is built into every layer of our development process. Our team
of experts uses industry-leading standards to design and implement CSRF protections in all
client web applications.Phone: [phone]
How Secuodsoft Helps Secure Applications from CSRF

9. Here’s how we do it:
Secure Development Lifecycle (SDLC): Security is integrated from the first line of code to
deployment.
Token-Based Security Design: All critical forms and API calls use anti-CSRF tokens by
default.
Session Management: We enforce secure session handling, SameSite cookie policies, and
session expiration.
Rigorous Testing: Using tools like OWASP ZAP and Burp Suite, we proactively identify and
fix CSRF flaws.
Secure Framework Integration: We use frameworks (like Django, Laravel, or Spring) that
offer built-in CSRF defenses.
Client Training & Awareness: We help client teams understand the risks and encourage
secure development practices internally.
With a blend of technical expertise and a security-first mindset, Secuodsoft ensures that your
applications are not just functional—but fortified.
Please read our blog topic on “A Comprehensive Guide to Cybersecurity Best Practices for
Mobile and Web Applications”

10. Conclusion
CSRF may not always be front-page news, but it remains one of the most underestimated
threats in web application security. With more users accessing services across devices and
sessions, it's critical for organizations to understand how these silent attacks operate—and
how to defend against them.
By following best practices, conducting regular testing, and partnering with security-
conscious development firms like Secuodsoft, businesses can minimize risks and maintain
customer trust.Phone: [phone]

11. Thank You Contact Us
252-253, 9th St, Unit 3, Kharvela
Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
751001
Phone: [phone]
Mail- [email protected]