In this section, we will explore the different verification levels defined by the OWASP Application Security Verification Standard (ASVS). These levels help organizations determine the depth and rigor of security verification required for their applications based on their risk profile and security requirements.

The ASVS defines three main verification levels:

1. Level 1: Opportunistic Security
2. Level 2: Standard Security
3. Level 3: Advanced Security

Each level builds upon the previous one, adding more stringent security requirements and controls. Let's delve into each level in detail.

Description:

• This level is designed for applications that require basic security measures.
• It focuses on addressing common and easily exploitable vulnerabilities.
• Suitable for applications with low risk and minimal sensitive data.

Key Requirements:

• Basic input validation to prevent common injection attacks.
• Simple authentication and session management controls.
• Basic error handling and logging mechanisms.

Example:

Description:

• This level is intended for applications that handle sensitive data and require a higher level of security.
• It includes more comprehensive security controls and practices.
• Suitable for applications with moderate risk, such as e-commerce platforms or financial services.

Key Requirements:

• Stronger input validation and output encoding to prevent various types of injection attacks.
• Robust authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication (MFA).
• Enhanced session management, including secure cookie handling and session expiration.
• Detailed error handling and logging with monitoring for suspicious activities.

Example:

Description:

• This level is designed for applications that require the highest level of security due to their critical nature.
• It includes the most stringent security controls and practices.
• Suitable for applications with high risk, such as government systems or critical infrastructure.

Key Requirements:

• Comprehensive input validation and output encoding to prevent all types of injection attacks.
• Advanced authentication mechanisms, including biometric authentication.
• Highly secure session management with continuous monitoring and anomaly detection.
• Detailed and real-time error handling, logging, and monitoring with automated response mechanisms.
• Regular security assessments and penetration testing.

Example:

Scenario: You are a security consultant for a company that is developing a new web application. The application will handle sensitive customer data, including personal information and payment details. The company wants to ensure that the application is secure and compliant with industry standards.

Task:

1. Identify the appropriate ASVS verification level for the application.
2. List the key security controls and practices that should be implemented based on the chosen verification level.

Solution:

1. Appropriate Verification Level:

   • Given that the application handles sensitive customer data, including personal information and payment details, the appropriate verification level is Level 2: Standard Security.

2. Key Security Controls and Practices:

   • Strong input validation and output encoding to prevent injection attacks.
   • Robust authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication (MFA).
   • Enhanced session management, including secure cookie handling and session expiration.
   • Detailed error handling and logging with monitoring for suspicious activities.
   • Regular security assessments to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.

Understanding the different verification levels in the OWASP ASVS is crucial for determining the appropriate security measures for your web application. By selecting the right level based on your application's risk profile and security requirements, you can ensure that your application is adequately protected against potential threats.