What Are Google Tag Manager Security Risks?

Google Tag Manager (GTM) is a potent tool, but it also comes with potential security risks like any powerful tool. Understanding these risks can help you put measures in place to mitigate them.

The GTM Risks

User Access Control

GTM allows for different levels of user access, which can pose a risk if not managed properly. For instance, a user with too much access can accidentally or maliciously modify tags, leading to incorrect data collection, website functionality disruption, or exposure to sensitive data.

Custom HTML Tags

GTM allows for the use of custom HTML tags. These tags can potentially execute any JavaScript code, making them a possible vector for Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks if an unauthorized person gains access to your GTM account.

Data Layer Manipulation

GTM relies on the data layer for advanced tracking configurations. Sensitive information should not be pushed to the data layer as this information can be seen by anyone who inspects the source code of your website. Additionally, an attacker might attempt to manipulate the data layer to distort tracking data or perform other malicious actions.

Third-Party Tags

GTM allows you to insert third-party tags into your website. If these third-party providers are compromised, or the tags aren't configured securely, they can pose a security risk.

How to Mitigate GTM Risks?

Consider the following best practices:

Limit and Monitor Access. Only grant GTM access to trusted individuals and regularly review who has access. Follow the principle of least privilege, i.e., give users only the access they need to do their job.
Use Built-In Tags. Use GTM's built-in tag templates instead of custom HTML tags wherever possible. The built-in tags are designed to be safe and efficient.
Safeguard the Data Layer. Be cautious about what information you push into the data layer. Sensitive information should never be included.
Vet Third-Party Tags. Be mindful of the third-party tags you implement. Use only trusted sources and keep these tags to a minimum to reduce potential exposure.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication. To protect your Google account (and, by extension, your GTM account) from unauthorized access, enable two-factor authentication.

By understanding the potential security risks associated with Google Tag Manager and following these best practices, you can help ensure that this powerful tool does not inadvertently introduce vulnerabilities to your website.

Performance vise implementing GTM the right way is as essential. Learn how to reduce the impact of third-party Google Tag Manager code and check the GTM performance tricks and hacks we did to have minimum impact on the performance of our website.