What is URL Interpretation Attack?

To get to know about that we first have to know about the URL(Uniform Resource Locator)!
What is a URL?
A URL is a type of uniform resource identifier that provides access to information from remote web servers and cloud storage.

Here is an example:

https://user:password@www.example.com:8080/path/to/resource?param1=value1&param2=value2#section

Scheme/Protocol: HTTPS
User (optional): Username
Password (optional): password
Domain: www.example.com
Port (optional): 8080
Path: /path/to/resource
Query Parameters: ?param1=value1&param2=value2
Fragment Identifier: #section

Now, that we know what a is URL we can get into the URL Interpretation Attack. URL Interpretation Attack also known as URL Poisoning and URL Manipulation when attackers modify the parameter of a ULR to gain access to unintended information from the web server. This exploit enables attackers to manipulate the semantics of the URL while preserving its syntax, potentially accessing sensitive data or executing unauthorized actions.

Here’s an example of URL Manipulation:

By manipulating certain parts of a URL, an attacker can gain access to web pages that they are not supposed to view. On dynamic websites, parameters are often passed through the URL,
such as http://example.com/forum/?page=2

These parameters are typically generated automatically by the website, and users navigate by clicking on the links provided. However, if a user manually alters the parameter, they can attempt different values,
like so: http://example.com/forum/?page=6

If the website’s designer hasn’t accounted for this possibility, an attacker may gain access to areas that are usually protected. Furthermore, a hacker can induce the website to process an unexpected scenario,
for instance: http://example.com/forum/?page=***********

By understanding and addressing these issues, website owners and developers can better protect their applications from URL manipulation attacks and other common security threats.

Thats it for today!
Will continue………