Certified: The Security+ Prepcast

Operating systems and web applications form the backbone of IT infrastructure, and when left unpatched or misconfigured, they present rich targets for exploitation. In this episode, we look at vulnerabilities like privilege escalation, insecure services, and poor access controls in operating systems, along with web-based flaws such as SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS). These weaknesses can allow attackers to manipulate databases, hijack sessions, exfiltrate data, or take control of underlying systems. We explore the consequences of failing to harden OS configurations, skip security updates, or expose sensitive web APIs without proper input sanitation. Tools such as web application firewalls (WAFs), intrusion detection systems, and secure coding practices can mitigate many of these threats. Defending against OS and web-based attacks requires a combination of timely patching, continuous monitoring, and development discipline to ensure both the platform and its interfaces are secure.