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Top Browser Extensions and Tools to Detect and Prevent XSS Attacks

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is one of the most common and dangerous web vulnerabilities. It occurs when attackers inject malicious scripts into websites, targeting unsuspecting users. If you’re a developer or security enthusiast, it’s essential to have the right tools to detect and prevent XSS during development.

Below are some of the best browser extensions and tools that can help you detect XSS vulnerabilities and secure your web apps.

1. XSS Radar (Chrome Extension)

XSS Radar is a handy Chrome extension that automatically scans web pages for reflected XSS vulnerabilities. It injects test payloads into URLs and form fields and analyzes the response to detect unsafe reflections.

2. HackTools (Chrome/Firefox Extension)

HackTools is a developer-focused extension offering a library of XSS, SQLi, and other payloads. It simplifies testing by allowing you to quickly inject scripts into vulnerable fields or parameters directly from your browser.

3. XSStrike (Command-Line Tool)

XSStrike is a powerful Python-based tool that goes beyond basic fuzzing. It intelligently analyzes inputs, detects the XSS context (HTML, JS, attribute), and generates context-aware payloads. It’s perfect for penetration testers and advanced devs.

  • Type: CLI tool
  • Features: Fuzzing, context analysis, payload crafting
  • GitHub: XSStrike Repository

4. Burp Suite

Burp Suite is a professional-grade security testing tool widely used in the industry. With features like Proxy, Repeater, Scanner, and more, it can detect all types of XSS (reflected, stored, DOM-based) through manual and automated testing.

  • Type: Desktop application (Community and Pro versions)
  • Best For: In-depth web application testing

5. OWASP ZAP (Zed Attack Proxy)

OWASP ZAP is a free, open-source alternative to Burp Suite. It features automated scanning, spidering, and XSS payload testing. Great for developers who want an all-in-one security suite for their apps.

  • Type: Desktop application
  • Best For: Automated XSS and security testing
  • Website: OWASP ZAP

How to Prevent XSS in Your Code

While detection tools help find XSS, the best defense is writing secure code. Here are some tips:

  1. Sanitize InputUse libraries like:
    • DOMPurify (JavaScript)
    • OWASP Java Encoder
    • htmlspecialchars() in PHP
  2. Escape OutputEscape data when inserting it into:
    • HTML (<, >, etc.)
    • JavaScript
    • Attributes
    • URLs
  3. Implement Content Security Policy (CSP)A CSP header prevents the execution of unauthorized scripts. Add headers like: 
    Content-Security-Policy: default-src 'self'; script-src 'self'

Conclusion

XSS is a real threat to your web application’s integrity and user safety. These tools and extensions can help you find vulnerabilities early and fix them before attackers do. Whether you’re just getting started or working in security, integrating these into your workflow is a smart move.

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