Traditional security solutions focus on endpoint and network-level intrusions. However, they are limited in their ability to detect attacks while an application is running. That’s where Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP) tools fill in the gaps.
RASP tools monitor applications for security threats in real-time and automatically block attacks when they occur without degrading software performance.
Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP) is a security tool for monitoring, identifying, and blocking malicious attacks while an application is running. It’s highly effective against web application attacks such as zero-day exploits, cross-site scripting (XSS), and SQL injection. RASP tools run independently with minimal human oversight.
RASP tools operate by controlling (and preventing) changes to an application. When they identify an attack, RASP tools stop the application from acting on it or executing it. Essentially, they act as a network security tool within the application.
For example, consider an SQL injection attack. RASP tools can identify the malicious code from an SQL injection attack and stop it from executing. Then, developers can remove the code from the database.
To accomplish this kind of real-time protection, RASP tools typically include:
RASP tools include sensors that are integrated directly within the application codebase. They activate when the application runs.
RASP tools understand the application’s purpose and context. They monitor for unusual behavior throughout the program’s execution to identify code vulnerabilities.
When a RASP tool identifies a vulnerability or potential attack, it immediately alerts developers to the problem. Tools can also provide an update on the application’s current status.
Detected attacks are immediately blocked. The RASP tool implements a patch to stop further malicious activity.
Since RASP tools activate while an application runs, they defend against attacks and locate vulnerabilities in real time.
RASP tools are designed to expose threats that occur when a program runs. Often, these threats aren’t visible in static or dynamic code analysis.
Let’s take a look at the different types of examples:
Malware may lurk in unexpected places or disguise its true intent. RASP tools identify and remove malware threats by monitoring an application’s behavior.
Hackers use rootkits as a backdoor to gain control of an application. RASP tools detect system changes caused by rootkits and restore the application’s original state.
RASP tools can spot viruses and zero-day attacks that cause an application to behave unexpectedly. If an attack occurs, the RASP tool immediately locks in to prevent it from harming systems.
Bad actors use multiple techniques to inject malicious code or cause memory disturbances during runtime. RASP tools are uniquely able to protect against such runtime attacks.
Gaining system privileges allows hackers to exert control over an application. Runtime security tools like RASP monitor for unauthorized login attempts and enforce an organization’s security policies.
Software that contains unknown vulnerabilities is susceptible to exploitation. RASP tools look for behavior changes during runtime that may indicate a zero-day exploit attempt.
Run-time security tools flag all system anomalies that may be signs of a hacking attempt. They can uncover even the most creative and cunning attack methods.
RASP tools are a critical part of any software vulnerable to run-time exploits. Implementing them in your cybersecurity toolbox offers several advantages, including the following:
Unlike dynamic and static security tools, RASP detects threats while an application runs. This attribute makes it especially effective at detecting attacks as they occur.
RASP monitors for common run-time threats, including SQL injections and cross-site scripting. Tools retain control over the application’s execution and act as a first line of defense against malicious traffic and exploits. They can prevent malicious code from executing or affecting a program’s expected behavior.
RASP aims to prevent a security incident from damaging the program itself. It systematically blocks attacks and malicious attempts to gain control of an application, which helps keep data safe and secure. And because RASP tools have contextual awareness, they can differentiate between genuine attacks and false flags.
RASP offers a simplified security management approach. It integrates well with other tools, such as web application firewalls (WAFs) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS), strengthening your overall security posture. Since it requires less developer oversight, teams can focus their talents on more productive tasks.
Organizations also benefit from RASP’s cost-effectiveness. It doesn’t require the use of additional servers and keeps infrastructure expenses low since it only accepts legitimate traffic. Tools can stop hacks with little impact on system performance or the user experience.
RASP is effective in any deployment environment, from on-premises to the cloud––it offers continuous and dynamic security protection.
RASP tools provide ongoing protection against run-time security threats. Combining RASP with other tools, such as WAF, ISP, and dynamic and static application security testing, is considered a best practice to protect applications against cyberattacks.
Hackers are always looking for new and innovative ways to exploit software. RASP tools can identify and block nearly any type of run-time threat since they consistently scan for abnormal system behavior. Implementing RASP tools into an application can help developers comply with security regulations and minimize the risk of a data breach.
There are a variety of RASP tools available to protect your systems and applications from unexpected attacks.
Dotfuscator is designed for .NET and MAUI-based applications. It deploys numerous C# obfuscator tools to protect your source code. Its features include string encryption, anti-debugging checks, root device checks, and code ciphering, which makes programs difficult to interpret. Dotfuscator supports .NET, Java, JavaScript, and Android systems. It can also mitigate against intellectual property theft with its built-in watermarking algorithm.
Imperva protects cloud-based applications against Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS) and bot attacks. It minimizes downtime during incidents to protect the user experience.
Built exclusively for JavaScript applications, JSDefender offers professional-grade code obfuscation tools. When deployed to your JavaScript program, it transforms code elements by wrapping critical code with guarding functions so they’re virtually unreadable to unauthorized third parties. It can detect code tampering and malicious debugging tools and block them from affecting your application.
Aikido Zen blocks SQL injection attempts and bots. It also includes rate-limiting tools to prevent brute-force attacks from overwhelming servers. Aikido Zen supports applications built with Python, PHP, Java, and .NET.
DashO protects Android, Kotlin, and Java apps from reverse engineering attacks. It uses obfuscation techniques to hide your source code and safeguard against intellectual property theft. DashO can identify and block debugging tools used to understand how your application works. Other features include an emulator check and root check, which prevent hackers from accessing your program’s source code or running the application with an emulator.
Contrast Protect guards applications and application programming interfaces (APIs) from zero-day vulnerabilities and other real-time attacks. It supports over 30 different programming languages and frameworks.
OpenRASP is an open-source RASP tool that supports web application servers on Linux platforms. It monitors common application activities for behavior anomalies.
Veracode identifies incoming attacks and stops them in their tracks. It also instructs developers on how the attack happened so they can implement stronger protections.
Hdiv is a beginner-friendly RASP tool that doesn’t require coding knowledge. It helps developers identify security vulnerabilities and bugs. Hdiv supports applications built using AngularJS, ASP.NET, React, and Java.
New Relic provides a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. It rolls over 50 capabilities into one package and includes over 780 integrations, including .NET, Java, and Node.js.
Datadog identifies and blocks real-time security threats. It is built for cloud-based public infrastructure and provides user-friendly dashboards to visualize activities.
Applications running Jscrambler benefit from intellectual property protection. RASP tools also guard against data breaches and unauthorized access attacks.
K2 Cyber Security was purchased by New Relic in 2022. It’s known for its effective protection against zero-day exploits and high-accuracy threat detection.
Appdome takes an AI-first approach to RASP. It uses AI to create customized mobile app security features for your product. Appdome protects against malicious debugging, reverse engineering attacks, and emulators/simulators.
With Liapp, application developers benefit from source code obfuscation and anti-tampering tools. Liapp is a no-code solution that can be added to mobile apps before being submitted for public distribution in app stores.
Dynatrace examines apps for malicious activities in real-time. It stops zero-day attacks with little impact on app performance while developers fix the issue. The RASP tool also includes proactive threat detection features and a dashboard to track incident responses.
Falco is a cloud native open-source RASP tool powered by eBPF. It uses custom rulesets to monitor for behavioral abnormalities while running an app. Falco offers support for several regulatory frameworks, including PCI DSS and NIST.
Applications running Waratek benefit from real-time automated patching whenever the system detects a security vulnerability. It prevents false positives with its built-in ledger and detects potential vulnerabilities within RESTful API endpoints.
Financial institutions and mobile banking apps rely on OneSpan to protect against real-time threats. It uses a multi-layered strategy to prevent code injections, overlay attacks, keylogging, and other security risks.
With Reflectiz, developers can perform a deep behavioral analysis on their web applications. The tool looks for vulnerabilities caused by third-party components and open-source apps. Results are provided in a clear report with suggested fixes. Reflectiz can also block potential threats when they occur.
Promon protects against code injection, malware, and reverse engineering. It’s a no-code RASP tool that doesn’t require in-house expertise to deploy. Promon offers support for mobile and web-based apps.
Before searching for a RASP tool, get a clear understanding of your technical and operational requirements. The following questions can help you narrow down your needs.
Consider the app’s most common programming languages and frameworks. You want a RASP tool that will integrate seamlessly with your tech stack and provide comprehensive security.
If you use dynamic or static security tools alongside RASP, make sure they complement one another and don’t pose integration hurdles.
Advanced RASP tools may integrate with other DevSecOps systems you use, such as ticketing and SIEM. This can be beneficial for organizations that take a multi-pillar approach to security.
Ideally, a RASP tool won’t add unnecessary complications to your current systems. It should be a natural fit that boosts overall developer efficiency.
Look for tools well-suited to handle emerging and advanced threats, including privilege escalation and zero-day vulnerabilities.
RASP technology shouldn’t interfere with an app’s regular use. Customization features allow you to scale RASP sensitivity based on the app’s functionality and security requirements.
A solution that doesn’t require significant developer training and implementation can minimize overhead expense and shorten deployment times.
Tools that offer clear documentation and community support reduce the implementation workload for in-house staff.
After selecting a RASP tool, clarify your implementation plan to avoid unwanted hiccups.
Placing the RASP tool directly into your system architecture allows it to continuously monitor for threats. It evolves with your application during development and after deployment.
RASP tools are one layer of a robust security defense. To deter would-be attackers and mitigate risks, implement other tools like intrusion detection systems and firewalls.
Make security a part of your application’s development from the very beginning. Incorporate security checks throughout the development lifecycle to find and resolve vulnerabilities early.
Educate developers on the capabilities of the new RASP tool and provide resources to assist in its deployment.
Before deploying the RASP solution in your product, carefully assess its impact on application performance. Some tools may require adjustments to prevent user experience disruptions.
After implementation and deployment, schedule regular tests to verify that the RASP tool is doing its job. Assess its ability to detect abnormalities and report suspicious activities. The tool may require tweaks to perform at its optimal capacity.
PreEmptive offers a suite of RASP tools that provide comprehensive protection against real-time cyberattacks. Start your free trial of Dotfuscator, DashO, or JSDefender to see how they can improve your app’s security defenses.
