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    API7:2023 - Server Side Request Forgery (SSRF)

    APIs that fetch remote resources can be tricked into calling internal or metadata endpoints.

    Why This Category Exists

    Features like URL previews, webhooks, imports, and connectors often require server-side requests. If user-supplied destinations are not restricted, attackers can pivot into private networks and cloud metadata services.

    Common Impact

    • Access to internal-only services and admin interfaces.
    • Credential theft from cloud instance metadata endpoints.
    • Lateral movement inside private infrastructure.

    Prevention Checklist

    • Use strict allowlists for outbound hosts and protocols.
    • Block private IP ranges, localhost, and metadata addresses.
    • Resolve and verify DNS/IP after redirects and before each request.
    • Route outbound traffic through controlled egress proxies.