Invalid forwarding and redirecting

Term

Jump to a topic

See every item in the sequence

Definition

An attack that sends users to an untrusted site because the destination in a redirect or forward is taken from unvalidated input. Prevent it by validating or whitelisting destinations.

Example: Only redirect to pages on your own site.

Found in: syllabus, school notes.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y12 Secure Software Architecture.

Question types it can appear in

Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Where it has appeared in the paper

Secure Software Architecture (Part A). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“An attack that sends users to an untrusted site because the destination in a redirect or forward is taken from unvalidated input.” Then apply it: Only redirect to pages on your own site.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

From the linked past questions

Identify: Recognise and name. (2025 HSC Q8 (1 mark): User action controls)

Go deeper

Flashcard: Invalid forwarding and redirecting in Secure Software Architecture (Year 12) · study that set
Memorise: User action controls: broken authentication, XSS, CSRF, forwarding, race conditions
Notes: Design, develop and implement secure code to minimise vulnerabilities in user action… (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
Notes: User action controls: broken authentication, XSS, CSRF, forwarding, race conditions (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Invalid forwarding and redirecting

Check yourself

Explain “Invalid forwarding and redirecting” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.

Reveal the answer