Challenge

The security assessment revealed multiple risks affecting the institution’s payment workflows, including:

1. Exposure of sensitive authentication tokens within client-side code
2. Potential request manipulation during transaction processing
3. Inadequate server-side validation of payment requests
4. Risk of unauthorized transaction tampering and fraud scenarios

The institution required a partner capable of delivering targeted security remediation without redesigning the entire application or disrupting production operations.

Solution

atQor was engaged to design and implement a secure, server-side payment workflow remediation aligned with modern application security standards.

Key elements of the solution included:

1. Server-Side Checkout Implementation
   Refactored payment logic to ensure all sensitive operations and credentials were handled securely on the server, eliminating client-side exposure.
2. Secure API Design
   Implemented strong request validation, authorization checks, and secure parameter handling for all payment-related operations.
3. Input Validation & Protection Controls
   Added protections against request tampering, injection risks, and unauthorized operations.
4. Security Logging & Monitoring
   Enabled secure logging and monitoring practices to improve traceability and incident readiness.
5. Testing & Validation
   Supported post-remediation security validation to confirm that identified vulnerabilities were successfully addressed.

The recommended server-side approach was implemented to ensure long-term security and compliance.

Delivery Approach

The engagement followed a structured remediation lifecycle:

1. Assessment Review – Analyzed security findings and prioritized remediation actions
2. Secure Design – Defined server-side checkout architecture and controls
3. Implementation – Applied code-level fixes and security enhancements
4. Testing & Verification – Supported validation through follow-up security scans
5. Closure & Documentation – Delivered remediation documentation and operational guidance

This approach ensured timely resolution while maintaining application stability.

Outcomes & Impact

The remediation delivered measurable security improvements:

1. Eliminated exposure of sensitive payment credentials
2. Prevented unauthorized request manipulation
3. Strengthened server-side security controls
4. Improved compliance posture for online transactions
5. Restored confidence in the institution’s payment workflows

The project was completed on schedule and formally accepted following successful security validation.