HTTP Security Headers: Why 88% of Websites Remain Vulnerable

HTTP security headers are simple yet powerful browser-side mechanisms that defend against entire categories of web attacks identified in the OWASP Top 10. A 2024 survey found that fewer than 12% of the top 1 million websites deploy Content Security Policy (CSP), despite its proven effectiveness at preventing XSS, clickjacking, and data injection attacks. This widespread gap represents an easy-to-fix security liability, as implementing these headers requires minimal effort while providing substantial protection for user data and application security.