{"id":30844,"date":"2026-03-12T11:00:39","date_gmt":"2026-03-12T10:00:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/?p=30844"},"modified":"2026-03-12T11:00:39","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T10:00:39","slug":"owasp-top-10-founders","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/","title":{"rendered":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Introduction to OWASP<\/h2>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is OWASP?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>OWASP stands for the Open Web Application Security Project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is a global nonprofit dedicated to improving software security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They provide valuable resources and guidelines to developers and organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of their most well-known resources is the OWASP Top 10 list.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why OWASP Matters for Founders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders play a critical role in building secure products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding security helps protect customers and business reputation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ignoring common web vulnerabilities can lead to costly breaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, learning OWASP principles can save time and money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, it boosts investor and user confidence in your startup.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How OWASP Helps Startups<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>OWASP provides clear guidance on the most severe security risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This allows founders to prioritize security efforts effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It also helps teams apply best practices during development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By following OWASP, startups can avoid common mistakes early on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, it contributes to building trustworthy and resilient products.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding Injection Vulnerabilities<\/h2>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Injection Vulnerabilities Are<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Injection vulnerabilities occur when an attacker inserts malicious code into a system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This typically happens through user input that is not properly checked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If a website accepts input without validation, attackers can exploit it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They trick the system into executing harmful commands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Applications interacting with databases or operating systems are common targets.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Injection Attacks Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers send crafted input designed to alter commands executed by the system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They insert SQL code to modify database queries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, they inject scripts that run on users&#8217; browsers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These attacks exploit poor input handling and misplaced trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, vulnerable login forms can reveal user passwords.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Types of Injection<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\n<li><strong>SQL Injection:<\/strong> Manipulates database queries to access unauthorized data.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Command Injection:<\/strong> Executes system commands via untrusted input.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cross-Site Scripting (XSS):<\/strong> Injects malicious scripts into web pages.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>LDAP Injection:<\/strong> Alters LDAP queries to bypass authentication.<br><br><\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Risks Injection Vulnerabilities Pose<\/h2>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Data Breaches and Loss<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Successful injections often lead to sensitive data exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers can steal customer information, business secrets, or intellectual property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, the breach Tesla faced in 2019 exploited SQL injection flaws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Such incidents damage both trust and company reputation.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Operational Disruption<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Injection attacks can corrupt or delete crucial data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This forced companies like Meridian Technologies to halt operations temporarily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Downtime reduces revenue and damages client relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, restoring systems is often expensive and time-consuming.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Legal and Financial Consequences<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Data breaches triggered by injections can lead to regulatory fines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Laws like GDPR impose heavy penalties for mishandled data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders must know that ignoring security risks invites costly lawsuits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Investing in prevention early helps avoid these issues.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Broken Authentication Means for Your Startup<\/h2>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding Broken Authentication<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Broken authentication occurs when attackers bypass your startup&#8217;s login and identity systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It usually happens because of weak password policies or poorly secured sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers can impersonate legitimate users and access sensitive data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This vulnerability can damage your startup&#8217;s reputation and customer trust.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Causes of Broken Authentication in Startups<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many startups use default or weak password requirements without additional safeguards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some lack multi-factor authentication, making accounts easier to compromise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Improper session management, such as failing to expire tokens, also increases risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, exposing login errors can help hackers guess credentials quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Risks and Consequences of Broken Authentication<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers can steal credit card information or personal data from your users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They might manipulate user accounts to perform unauthorized transactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This leads to financial losses and legal complications for your startup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some startups suffer permanent damage due to loss of customer confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Effective Strategies to Protect Your Startup<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Begin by implementing strong password policies with length and complexity requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Enable multi-factor authentication to add an extra security layer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use secure session management techniques to prevent hijacking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regularly monitor login attempts and promptly block suspicious activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Educate your development team about secure authentication best practices.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Case Study on Secure Sign-Up Scaling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The team at Lumina Logic enhanced their login systems significantly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They introduced multi-factor authentication and robust password rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consequently, their account takeover incidents dropped significantly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This change helped them build trust with both new and existing customers.<\/p>\n<p>You Might Also Like: <a id=\"read_url-1773309032_87690061\" href=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/2026\/03\/12\/modernizing-legacy-apps\/\">Modernizing Legacy Apps Without Breaking Everything<\/a><\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Sensitive Data Exposure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sensitive data exposure happens when private information is not properly protected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hackers or unauthorized users can access this data as a result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common examples include credit card numbers, passwords, and personal details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders should understand that this risk can damage their company&#8217;s reputation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This issue can also lead to legal troubles and financial losses.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Sensitive Data Exposure Matters for Startups<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Startups often collect crucial customer and employee information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When this data leaks, trust in the company can quickly erode.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, NimbusTech Solutions suffered a data breach that affected thousands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Such incidents harm user loyalty and significantly slow down growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, protecting sensitive data must remain a top priority.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Ways Sensitive Data Gets Exposed<\/h2>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weak Encryption or No Encryption<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Encrypting data means converting it into unreadable code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Without strong encryption, attackers can easily steal and understand data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, storing payment information in plain text makes it vulnerable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Always use reliable encryption standards like AES or TLS to secure data.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Insecure Data Transmission<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Data sent over insecure channels can be intercepted by cybercriminals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Transmitting data over an unprotected Wi-Fi network is especially risky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Using HTTPS ensures data travels safely between users and servers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Startups should never send sensitive data without proper protection protocols.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Poor Access Controls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Limiting who can view or change sensitive data is critical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If everyone has access, accidental or malicious leaks become more likely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, LumaGear configured user permissions incorrectly, causing data exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Implement roles and permissions carefully to reduce exposure risks.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Effective Strategies to Prevent Sensitive Data Exposure<\/h2>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Prioritize Data Encryption<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Encrypt data both at rest and during transit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders should verify if developers use up-to-date encryption technologies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keeping encryption keys secure is equally important.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Use Secure Communication Channels<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Require all web traffic to be served via HTTPS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensure APIs and backend services use encrypted protocols as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This approach prevents attackers from capturing sensitive data during transfer.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Implement Strict Access Controls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Grant data access only to employees who need it for their roles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Review permission levels regularly and remove unnecessary privileges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, enforce multi-factor authentication for sensitive account access.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Regularly Test and Monitor Systems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Schedule penetration tests to detect vulnerabilities early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Monitoring unusual activities helps reveal potential data exposures quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, NovaTech&#8217;s continuous monitoring allowed them to spot breaches early.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Developing a Culture Focused on Data Protection<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders should train their teams on the importance of data security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Clear policies and procedures reduce the chance of accidental data leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employees must learn how to handle sensitive information responsibly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, fostering a security-first mindset strengthens the entire company&#8217;s defenses.<\/p>\n<p>Discover More: <a id=\"read_url-1773309032_11660333\" href=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/2026\/03\/12\/hipaa-software-health-startups\/\">HIPAA Software Basics for Health Startups<\/a><\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Impact of XML External Entities on Business Security<\/h2>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding XML External Entities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>XML External Entities (XXE) is a type of security vulnerability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This issue occurs in applications that process XML inputs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hackers exploit XXE to access sensitive data or execute malicious code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A software engineer at ClearPoint Financial once overlooked this threat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The result exposed confidential client information to external parties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, understanding XXE is vital to protecting business assets.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How XXE Threatens Business Security<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>XXE attacks allow unauthorized file access within your infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These attacks can lead to data breaches involving trade secrets and customer data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers may also cause denial of service by overloading XML parsers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some use XXE to perform server-side request forgery (SSRF) attacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, these risks damage a company&#8217;s reputation and reduce revenue.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Vulnerabilities Leading to XXE Exploits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many organizations rely on outdated XML parsers lacking secure configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Failure to validate input properly increases the chance of XXE attacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, a fintech firm in Denver experienced a breach due to this flaw.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Insecure default settings often allow external entity processing unintentionally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mixing trusted and untrusted data in XML can open new attack vectors.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Effective Steps Founders Can Take to Mitigate XXE Risks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Begin by disabling external entity processing in all XML parsers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, validate and sanitize all XML inputs before processing them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hiring security experts to review code uncovers hidden vulnerabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, regularly updating libraries reduces exposure to known bugs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Implementing secure coding practices stops many common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Importance of Proactive Security for Business Founders<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders like Maya Collins at GreenTech Innovations protect their customers&#8217; trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking security seriously avoids costly regulatory fines and lawsuits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It also helps build a resilient brand reputation in competitive markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Preventing XXE vulnerabilities supports sustained long-term business growth.<\/p>\n<p>You Might Also Like: <a id=\"read_url-1773309032_46053623\" href=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/2026\/03\/12\/multi-tenant-saas-architecture\/\">Multi-Tenant SaaS Architecture: The Essentials<\/a><\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Broken Access Control Can Compromise Your Applications<\/h2>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Broken Access Control Means<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Access control limits what users can do within an application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When access control is broken, users act without proper permission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This flaw lets attackers bypass security rules and reach restricted data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result, they may view or alter sensitive information unlawfully.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Ways Access Control Fails<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Developers sometimes forget to enforce access rules on backend servers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In other cases, applications expose API endpoints lacking proper checks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Insecure direct object references allow users to access others&#8217; data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, if a URL contains account IDs, attackers change values to explore other accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Real-World Risks for Tech Startups<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tech startups like SolariTech face reputational damage from broken access control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When customers&#8217; data leaks, users lose trust in the product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, attackers might gain administrative rights and disrupt services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This causes financial losses and legal challenges for companies like NovaSphere Technologies.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategies for Founders to Prevent These Vulnerabilities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Always enforce access control rules on the server side, never only in the UI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use role-based access control (RBAC) to assign permissions clearly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regularly audit your application&#8217;s endpoints and user permissions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Implement logging to detect unauthorized access attempts quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended Best Practices for Solid Access Control<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\n<li>Validate user permissions before processing any sensitive requests.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Limit data exposure by returning only necessary information.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use frameworks that provide built-in access control features.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Educate your development team about access control risks and fixes.<br><br><\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Approaches to Maintaining Application Security from the Start<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders like Maya Chen emphasize security from day one in their startups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She ensures her engineering team follows security checklists for every release.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This process minimizes risks associated with broken access control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Such approaches build user confidence and sustain growth in competitive markets.<\/p>\n<p>See Related Content: <a id=\"read_url-1773309032_4447355\" href=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/2026\/03\/11\/notification-system-design\/\">Designing Notification Systems Users Don&#8217;t Mute<\/a><\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-post.jpg\" alt=\"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders\" class=\"wp-image-30846\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-post.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-post-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-post-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-post-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-post-148x148.jpg 148w, https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-post-296x296.jpg 296w, https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-post-512x512.jpg 512w, https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-post-920x920.jpg 920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Dangers of Security Misconfiguration for New Ventures<\/h2>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Security Misconfiguration?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Security misconfiguration happens when a system is set up incorrectly or incompletely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This flaw leaves vulnerabilities that attackers can easily exploit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Startups often face this risk due to limited security resources and tight deadlines.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Causes of Security Misconfiguration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many founders rush product launches without fully securing their infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Incorrectly applied default settings expose sensitive data and services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, unused features and open cloud storage often remain unsecured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\n<li>Leaving default passwords unchanged on servers and databases.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exposing internal admin panels to the public internet.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Failing to update or patch software regularly.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Misconfigured cloud permissions allowing broad access.<br><br><\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reasons Why New Ventures Are Especially Vulnerable<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>New startups like SolarCore Solutions often prioritize growth over security at first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This urgency causes overlooked misconfigurations that attackers detect quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Besides, founders such as Daniel Rivera may lack cybersecurity expertise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They may not realize how a small lapse can lead to a breach.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Consequences of Security Misconfiguration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Security misconfiguration can cause costly data leaks or system shutdowns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An incident may destroy customer trust and damage a brand&#8217;s reputation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, a breach could expose private user details or payment data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Such damage often results in legal consequences and heavy regulatory fines.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Effective Measures to Prevent Security Misconfiguration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Startups should implement secure configuration standards from day one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders are encouraged to involve security experts early in development cycles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regular automated scans can detect misconfigurations before attackers find them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Training teams on best security practices reduces accidental errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\n<li>Disable unused features and services.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change default credentials immediately.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use infrastructure as code to enforce security settings consistently.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply timely patches and updates to all software components.<br><br><\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Building a Culture of Security Awareness in Startups<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Encouraging everyone at startups like NovaLink Systems to prioritize security is vital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regular security reviews ensure configurations remain correct as systems evolve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Practicing a &#8220;secure by design&#8221; mindset reduces the chance of misconfiguration risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This approach protects both the company and its customers in the long term.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cross-Site Scripting Threats Explained for Non-Technical Founders<\/h2>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Cross-Site Scripting?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Cross-Site Scripting, or XSS, is a common web security vulnerability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers insert harmful code into websites to exploit this vulnerability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This code runs in users&#8217; browsers without their permission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers can steal sensitive information or manipulate site behavior as a result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders benefit from understanding XSS to protect their companies and users.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Implications of Cross-Site Scripting on Your Business<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>XSS can quickly damage your company&#8217;s reputation and trustworthiness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, customers lose trust if their data gets compromised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers might also deface your website, harming your brand image.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hackers can hijack user accounts and cause financial losses too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Protecting against XSS is critical for startup success and growth.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Types of Cross-Site Scripting Attacks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Several types of XSS attacks require your attention and understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\n<li><strong>Stored XSS:<\/strong> Malicious code is saved on a website&#8217;s database.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reflected XSS:<\/strong> Harmful code is embedded in a link sent to users.<br><br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>DOM-based XSS:<\/strong> The attack modifies website code on the user&#8217;s browser.<br><br><\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Learning these types helps founders identify where risks may occur.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Indicators That Your Website May Have an XSS Vulnerability<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unexpected behaviors on your site often warn of possible vulnerabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, strange pop-ups or redirects could indicate security issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>User reports of unauthorized actions are another important warning sign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Security scans might reveal script injections or other anomalies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Responding quickly to these signs helps reduce potential damage.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Effective Measures for Founders to Secure Their Startup Against XSS<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Startups must prioritize security from day one to stay protected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensure developers validate and sanitize all user input consistently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, choose modern web frameworks that help prevent XSS automatically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Implement Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit harmful scripts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regular code reviews and penetration testing with firms like Orion Cybersecurity are essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Following these steps builds strong defenses against XSS attacks.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Founders Must Prioritize Awareness of Cross-Site Scripting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders shape their company&#8217;s vision and security culture significantly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding XSS enables informed decisions about security priorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ignoring these risks may cause expensive incidents and lost customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Conversely, investing in prevention builds trust with users and investors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, awareness and action on XSS safeguard your startup&#8217;s future.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Risks from Insecure Deserialization<\/h2>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Insecure Deserialization?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Insecure deserialization happens when an application processes untrusted data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This data can alter or reconstruct objects unexpectedly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consequently, attackers can manipulate the system behavior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, a hacker could inject malicious code through this vulnerability.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Attackers Exploit This Risk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers supply specially crafted data during deserialization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This data may contain malicious instructions embedded within objects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once processed, these instructions can trigger unauthorized actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Often, it allows running arbitrary code or gaining system privileges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some cases, attackers may launch denial-of-service attacks.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Business Implications of Insecure Deserialization<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Insecure deserialization can cause severe damage to a business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, sensitive customer data may be exposed or stolen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, attackers might disrupt services, causing downtime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This downtime affects customer trust and revenue streams directly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, companies can face hefty fines due to regulatory breaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Reputation damage from security failures can last for years.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Real World Examples That Matter to Founders<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider ArgentTech, a financial startup compromised by insecure deserialization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The attack compromised customer accounts and led to financial loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similarly, VoltIQ, an IoT provider, saw device control hijacked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These cases illustrate how serious the risk truly is for businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Effective Strategies for Founders to Address This Risk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>First, ensure development teams avoid deserializing untrusted data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, they should apply strict validation and use safe deserialization techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employing libraries with built-in security features helps mitigate risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regular code audits and penetration testing are essential preventive measures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, stay updated with OWASP guidelines and software patches.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Using Components with Known Vulnerabilities<\/h2>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Founders Should Care About Vulnerable Components<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many startups rely on third-party software components to speed up development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These components may contain security flaws that attackers can exploit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders like Emily Carter at BrightTech learned this the hard way during a security breach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding the risks associated with these components is crucial for business safety.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Sources of Vulnerable Components<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Components often come from open-source libraries, SDKs, or commercial software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, Daniel Kim from InnovateApps discovered a problem in a popular JavaScript library.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Such issues arise when components are outdated or improperly maintained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders must track where each software piece originates and its update status.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Risks Posed by Vulnerable Components<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Using risky components can cause data leaks, downtime, and loss of customer trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sarah Lopez, founder of GreenWave, realized that a simple flaw exposed users&#8217; data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attackers often exploit known vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ignoring component security can damage a startup&#8217;s reputation and finances seriously.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategies to Manage and Mitigate Vulnerabilities<\/h2>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inventory Your Software Components<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by listing all third-party components used in your product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>James Patel at NexaSolutions uses automated tools to maintain an accurate inventory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This helps identify which parts need urgent updates or replacements.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Monitor for Vulnerability Alerts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Subscribe to security advisories related to your components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tools like Snyk and Dependabot notify developers about emerging risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regular monitoring ensures timely action before attackers exploit weaknesses.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Update and Patch Regularly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Establish a routine to update software libraries as new patches release.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders should empower teams to prioritize vulnerability fixes during sprints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Updating reduces the window of opportunity hackers have to exploit bugs.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Consider Security in Vendor Selection<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose components from reputable sources with strong security track records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Claire Johnson of TechVibe insists on vendor transparency for security practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This lowers the likelihood of introducing risky software into your system.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plan for Incident Response<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Prepare a clear process in case a vulnerability is exploited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders must ensure communication, mitigation, and recovery steps are in place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This readiness helps minimize damage and restore trust quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Empowering Founders to Lead Security Efforts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Founders set the tone for the security culture within their startups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By understanding component risks, they can guide their teams effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Active involvement from leaders like Michael Nguyen at BrightStar Apps improved software safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eventually, this vigilance becomes a competitive advantage and builds customer confidence.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Additional Resources<\/h3>\n                        \n\n                        \n                        <p><a href=\"https:\/\/owasp.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OWASP Foundation, the Open Source Foundation for Application &#8230;<\/a><\/p>\n                        \n\n                        \n                        <p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/posts\/gavitaregunath_aigovernance-aisecurity-owasp-activity-7424006235248566273-665u\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OWASP Top 10: Excessive Agency Threats to AI Systems | LinkedIn<\/a><\/p>\n                        <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Before You Go\u2026<\/h3>\n                \n\n                \n                <p>Hey, thank you for reading this blog post to the end. I hope it was helpful. Let me tell you a little bit about <a href=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/\">Nicholas Idoko Technologies<\/a>.<\/p>\n                \n\n                \n                <p>We help businesses and companies build an online presence by developing web, mobile, desktop, and blockchain applications.<\/p>\n                \n\n                \n                <p>We also help aspiring software developers and programmers learn the skills they need to have a successful career.<\/p>\n                \n\n                \n                <p>Take your first step to becoming a programming expert by joining our <a href=\"https:\/\/learncode.nicholasidoko.com\/?source=seo:nicholasidoko.com\">Learn To Code<\/a> academy today!<\/p>\n                \n\n                \n                <p>Be sure to <a href=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/#contact\">contact us<\/a> if you need more information or have any questions! We are readily available.<\/p>\n                ","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Introduction to OWASP What is OWASP? OWASP stands for the Open Web Application Security Project. It is a&hellip;","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":30845,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"","_yoast_wpseo_title":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-title":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-description":"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders","_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw_text_input":"","csco_display_header_overlay":false,"csco_singular_sidebar":"","csco_page_header_type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-30844","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-technology","8":"cs-entry"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Nicholas Idoko\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-03-12T10:00:39+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Nicholas Idoko\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:description\" content=\"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@nitechnologies\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@nitechnologies\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Nicholas Idoko\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"16 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Nicholas Idoko\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/94fc94f0222fdae4cfd511ff9f4d9a9d\"},\"headline\":\"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-03-12T10:00:39+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":3190,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Technology\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/\",\"name\":\"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-03-12T10:00:39+00:00\",\"description\":\"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/03\\\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg\",\"width\":1024,\"height\":1024,\"caption\":\"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/owasp-top-10-founders\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"Nicholas Idoko\",\"description\":\"Web, App &amp; Custom Software Company\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"alternateName\":\"Nicholas Idoko\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Nicholas Idoko\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/03\\\/NIT-logo-1.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/03\\\/NIT-logo-1.jpg\",\"width\":600,\"height\":600,\"caption\":\"Nicholas Idoko\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/nitechnologies\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/nitechnologies\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/youtube.com\\\/channel\\\/UCdJpZYQ5OkreCcmyvkGKboA\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/94fc94f0222fdae4cfd511ff9f4d9a9d\",\"name\":\"Nicholas Idoko\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/01\\\/cropped-Nicholas-Idoko-96x96.png\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/01\\\/cropped-Nicholas-Idoko-96x96.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/01\\\/cropped-Nicholas-Idoko-96x96.png\",\"caption\":\"Nicholas Idoko\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\"],\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/nicholasidoko.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/nicholas\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders","description":"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders","og_description":"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders","og_url":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/","og_site_name":"Nicholas Idoko","article_published_time":"2026-03-12T10:00:39+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1024,"height":1024,"url":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Nicholas Idoko","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_title":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders","twitter_description":"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders","twitter_creator":"@nitechnologies","twitter_site":"@nitechnologies","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Nicholas Idoko","Est. reading time":"16 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/"},"author":{"name":"Nicholas Idoko","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/94fc94f0222fdae4cfd511ff9f4d9a9d"},"headline":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders","datePublished":"2026-03-12T10:00:39+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/"},"wordCount":3190,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg","articleSection":["Technology"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/","url":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/","name":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg","datePublished":"2026-03-12T10:00:39+00:00","description":"Discover the OWASP Top 10 for founders explained simply to secure your startup effectively. #owasptop10founders","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/owasp-top-10-in-plain-english-for-founders-feature.jpg","width":1024,"height":1024,"caption":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/owasp-top-10-founders\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"OWASP Top 10 in Plain English for Founders"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/","name":"Nicholas Idoko","description":"Web, App &amp; Custom Software Company","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/#organization"},"alternateName":"Nicholas Idoko","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"Nicholas Idoko","url":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/NIT-logo-1.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/NIT-logo-1.jpg","width":600,"height":600,"caption":"Nicholas Idoko"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/x.com\/nitechnologies","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nitechnologies\/","https:\/\/youtube.com\/channel\/UCdJpZYQ5OkreCcmyvkGKboA"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/94fc94f0222fdae4cfd511ff9f4d9a9d","name":"Nicholas Idoko","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/cropped-Nicholas-Idoko-96x96.png","url":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/cropped-Nicholas-Idoko-96x96.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/cropped-Nicholas-Idoko-96x96.png","caption":"Nicholas Idoko"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com"],"url":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/author\/nicholas\/"}]}},"modified_by":null,"views":3,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30844","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=30844"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30844\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":30847,"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30844\/revisions\/30847"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/30845"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=30844"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=30844"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nicholasidoko.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=30844"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}