Skip navigation

Stefan Kimak

PhD in Computer Science and Digital Technologies

This thesis presents an analysis of, and enhanced security model for IndexedDB, the persistent HTML5 browser based data store.

This thesis firstly argues that IndexedDB is insecure by design. That is, the design of IndexedDB means that every implementation is vulnerable to attacks such as Cross Site Scripting, and even data from databases that have been deleted may readily be stolen using appropriate software tools. This is demonstrated experimentally on both mobile and desktop browsers. IndexedDB is however capable of very high performance levels.This is demonstrated through the development of a formal performance model.

In the final component of this thesis, we propose and implement security enhancement that corrects the weaknesses in IndexedDB local storage. The enhancement uses multi factor authentication, and so is resistant to Cross Site Scripting attacks. This enhancement is then demonstrated experimentally, showing HTML5 IndexedDb may be securely used both on and offline.

Research Supervisors

  • Dr. Jeremy Ellman
  • Ms Shelagh Keogh

Key Publications

Some potential issues with the security of HTML5 indexedDB. / Conference paper

Performance Testing and Comparison of Client Side Databases Versus Server Side. / Conference paper

An Investigation into Possible Attacks on HTML5 IndexedDB and their Prevention. / Conference paper

 


a sign in front of a crowd
+

Northumbria Open Days

Open Days are a great way for you to get a feel of the University, the city of Newcastle upon Tyne and the course(s) you are interested in.

a person sitting at a table using a laptop
+
NU World Virtual Tours
+

Virtual Tour

Get an insight into life at Northumbria at the click of a button! Come and explore our videos and 360 panoramas to immerse yourself in our campuses and get a feel for what it is like studying here using our interactive virtual tour.

Latest News and Features

Members of the Common Sense Policy Group at Northumbria University have released a new report with Insights North East which presents cutting-edge evidence on regional public opinion on the future of transport policy in the North East.
All Jumbled Up Report Cover
Digital forensics
Dying mangrove trees in the Maldives
Becca French
Autumn 2024 News
More news
More events

Upcoming events

Undergraduate & Postgraduate Open Day
What is to become of us?
Interior Educators Conference 2024
-

Back to top