The Ultimate Django Security Checklist for Bug Bounty Hunters
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Introduction
Django is widely regarded as one of the most secure web frameworks, thanks to its built-in protection mechanisms. However, like any framework, improper configurations or developer errors can lead to vulnerabilities. This checklist is designed to help bug bounty hunters identify and exploit potential vulnerabilities in Django-based web applications.
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Checklist for Identifying Django Vulnerabilities
1. Debug Mode Exposure
Risk: Reveals sensitive information such as environment variables, database credentials, and stack traces.
How to Test:
Check if DEBUG = True is enabled by causing errors or accessing common debug URLs (e.g., /debug/).
Remediation: Always set DEBUG = False in production.
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2. CSRF (Cross-Site Request Forgery)
Risk: Django provides CSRF protection, but misconfigurations or using @csrf_exempt can make endpoints vulnerable.
How to Test:
Identify POST/PUT requests and remove the csrfmiddlewaretoken.
Use tools like Burp Suite to craft malicious CSRF payloads.
Remediation: Avoid using @csrf_exempt unless absolutely necessary.
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3. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
Risk: XSS can occur if developers disable Django’s auto-escaping in templates (e.g., using |safe).
How to Test:
Inject <script>alert(1)</script> in input fields or query parameters.
Look for reflected or stored payloads in responses.
Remediation: Avoid using |safe unless sanitizing input properly.
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4. SQL Injection
Risk: Using raw SQL queries without parameterized inputs can lead to SQLi.
How to Test:
Inject SQL payloads like ' OR 1=1-- into query parameters or form inputs.
Remediation: Use Django ORM instead of raw queries, or ensure proper parameterization.
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5. Sensitive Data Exposure
Risk: Exposing sensitive files like .env, settings.py, or database dumps can lead to data leaks.
How to Test:
Use tools like Burp Suite or directory brute-forcing tools to locate sensitive files.
Look for hardcoded API keys or credentials in responses.
Remediation: Restrict access to sensitive files using proper file permissions and server configurations.
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6. Insecure Authentication and Authorization
Risk: Misconfigured authentication mechanisms or missing @login_required decorators can lead to unauthorized access.
How to Test:
Attempt accessing restricted endpoints as an unauthenticated user.
Test privilege escalation by modifying user IDs in API requests.
Remediation: Use @login_required or @permission_required decorators wherever necessary.
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7. Missing Security Headers
Risk: Missing headers like Strict-Transport-Security, Content-Security-Policy, or X-Frame-Options can expose the application to attacks.
How to Test:
Use tools like SecurityHeaders or Burp Suite to check response headers.
Remediation: Enable SecurityMiddleware and configure headers.
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8. Improper File Upload Handling
Risk: Allowing unrestricted file uploads can lead to RCE or DoS attacks.
How to Test:
Upload malicious files like .php, .exe, or scripts and check for execution or improper validation.
Remediation: Validate file types and use secure upload directories.
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9. Admin Panel Exposure
Risk: Exposed admin panels can be brute-forced or accessed by unauthorized users.
How to Test:
Attempt accessing /admin or other known admin paths.
Test for weak credentials or lack of account lockouts.
Remediation: Restrict admin access by IP or enforce two-factor authentication.
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10. Directory Traversal
Risk: Improper handling of file paths can lead to unauthorized access to system files.
How to Test:
Use payloads like ../../etc/passwd to traverse directories.
Remediation: Sanitize user input for file paths and use secure file APIs.
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Tools to Use
Burp Suite:
For request interception and vulnerability testing.
OWASP ZAP:
For automated scanning of security issues.
Nikto:
To scan for misconfigurations.
Wappalyzer:
To identify Django and its version.
Nmap:
For framework and service fingerprinting.
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Securing Django applications involves a combination of following best practices, leveraging its built-in security features, and avoiding common developer pitfalls. This checklist not only helps bug bounty hunters but also serves as a guide for developers to secure their applications. By addressing these vulnerabilities, you can ensure a more robust and secure Django deployment.
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