Scalp: Log Analyzer Finds Web Attacks
Romain Gaucher, a specialist in web security, offers his Scalp tool in version 0.4. The log analyzer searches for attacks on Apache web applications.
Scalp’s Python script uses regular expressions of the PHP Intrusion Detection System (PHPIDS) project that monitors attacks on PHP applications. Methods used include cross-site scripting (XSS), cross-site request forgery (CSRF) and SQL injection. Because the Apache web server in its standard form does not employ POST request variables, it can detect only GET request attacks.
The tool outputs its results as a report in text, XML or HTML format (here an example).
Scalp can sort its search results by type of attack, as a formatted HTML page.
In its standard form, the script can handle Apache logs of more than 100 megabytes without a problem, according to Gaucher. Limiting the analysis to a timeframe and a particular type of attack can further reduce the search time for large data sets. The program also allows spot checks in large log files.
The tool consists of a single Python script. Users will also need to download a default filter file. Both are available on the project home page.
Romain Gaucher is currently working on a C++ version of his program.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.
-
Linux Kernel 6.14 Released
The latest Linux kernel has arrived with extra Rust support and more.