Abstract

This Independent Study examines cybersecurity vulnerabilities within corporate environments, focusing on how attackers exploit weaknesses in digital infrastructures and how strategic improvements can mitigate these risks. Through an analysis of significant cyber-attacks on major corporations, this study delves into both the technical aspects of these breaches and the social engineering techniques that often play a critical role in bypassing security measures. The project aims to replicate a controlled version of these vulnerabilities through the development of a mock website using Django, Python, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. This site is structured to hold 'dummy' sensitive information, creating an environment in which various cyberattacks, such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS) and weak password protocols, can be simulated to analyze common entry points for malicious actors.

A two-part approach is taken to demonstrate the contrasting effects of minimal versus comprehensive security. Initially, the mock site operates with insufficient security, allowing for the simulation of successful attacks to highlight typical vulnerabilities. In the second phase, robust security measures are implemented, including input validation, secure authentication protocols, and encryption, showcasing the enhanced resilience that these measures provide against attacks. This dual-phase demonstration aims to underscore the critical nature of each security element in safeguarding corporate assets.

By synthesizing lessons from real-world case studies and applying them in a practical, hands-on environment, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of cybersecurity’s evolving challenges and the proactive measures required to counteract them. It emphasizes the importance of a multilayered,strategic approach to corporate cybersecurity, advocating for continual improvement and vigilance as foundational principles for securing sensitive digital assets.

Advisor

Guarnera, Heather

Department

Computer Science

Keywords

cybersecurity, web design

Publication Date

2025

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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