Welcome to this comprehensive guide on understanding and preventing OWASP Broken Access Control. In this guide, we’ll delve deep into what OWASP Broken Access Control is all about, why it is important, how to detect it, and proven strategies to keep your systems safe from this cybersecurity threat.

Introduction

The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) is an online community that produces methodologies, documentation, tools, and technologies in the field of web application security. Among the many resources OWASP provides is its list of the top 10 most critical web application security risks. One of these risks that often goes unnoticed but can compromise your system’s information significantly is Broken Access Control.

Understanding OWASP Broken Access Control

Broken Access Control, otherwise known as Insecure Direct Object References, comprises security flaws that occur when a user can override or bypass authorization. In effect, cyber offenders can perform operations or gain access to unauthorized data.

The danger of 'owasp broken access control' cannot be overstated. It's among the most prevalent and exploitable vulnerabilities in applications, enabling attackers to view sensitive files, modify other users’ data, change access rights, among others. Given that the consequences can be catastrophic, let's look at ways to detect and prevent this threat from infiltrating your cyber space.

Detecting OWASP Broken Access Control

Broken Access Control can be challenging to detect because of its inconspicuous nature. It doesn’t leave clear trails such as error messages or changed data. Instead, it involves a complete misuse of your application’s functionality that an automated scanner may miss. Therefore, testing for 'owasp broken access control' largely depends on the knowledge and proficiency of your testers. A thorough tester should evaluate role definitions, user and session management, asset management, and more.

Preventing OWASP Broken Access Control

Preventing 'owasp broken access control' involves a multi-faceted approach. Here are some strategies you can consider:

1. Employ Restrictive Access Control

This involves strictly defining what authenticated users can do, see, and modify. Use deny-by-default cross-origin sharing policies and ensure your security wall rejects all by default.

2. Use Access Control Lists

Access Control Lists are tables that tell a computer operating system which access rights each user has to a particular system object. Using these lists ensures that only authorized users have access to particular resources.

3. Employ Least Privilege Principle

This principle stipulates that a user should have the minimum levels of access — or permissions — necessary to complete his/her job functions. This requires having a solid understanding of user duties and a stringent review process.

4. Regular Security Audits

A regularly conducted security audit allows you to identify and fix issues related to 'owasp broken access control'. It should include system wide-checks for permissions, user authentication, and password policies.

5. Security Training and Awareness

Your staff should understand the importance of security measures, the use of strong passwords, and the dangers of carelessness or complacency when handling sensitive data.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 'owasp broken access control' is a significant web application security risk that requires your urgent attention. By understanding what it entails and how it operates, you can keep a step ahead of the cybercriminals. Implementing restrictive access control, regular security audits, staff training, and applying the least privilege principle are proven strategies to fend off this threat. Cybersecurity isn’t a one-time event but a continuous process that evolves with time and technology. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and you'll stay safe.