SQL injection is a type of cyber attack that involves injecting malicious code into a website or application's database through a vulnerability in the software. The attacker's goal is to gain unauthorized access to or manipulate the data stored in the database.
SQL injection attacks are often possible because of poor input validation and/or insufficient sanitization of user-supplied data. When user input is not properly validated or sanitized, it can allow an attacker to submit malicious input that can be interpreted as a command by the database. For example, an attacker could enter a string of SQL code into a form field that is intended for a simple text input, and the database may then execute the malicious code as if it were a legitimate command.
SQL injection attacks can have serious consequences, such as the theft of sensitive data, the alteration or deletion of data, or the ability to execute arbitrary code on the server. It is important for software developers to ensure that their applications are properly designed and tested to prevent SQL injection vulnerabilities.
To prevent SQL injection attacks, developers should follow best practices such as:
By following these best practices, developers can help to protect their applications and databases from SQL injection attacks and other types of cyber threats.