SQLi Vulnerable Application

What is SQL Injection (SQLi)?

SQL Injection (SQLi) is a type of security vulnerability that allows an attacker to interfere with the queries that an application makes to its database. This is typically done by inserting malicious SQL code into a query via user input fields.

Why is SQLi Dangerous?

SQLi is one of the most dangerous vulnerabilities because it can allow attackers to:

• Bypass authentication mechanisms and access sensitive data.
• Alter, delete, or corrupt database data.
• Execute administrative operations on the database.
• Potentially execute commands on the underlying operating system.

How to Prevent SQLi?

• Use Parameterized Queries: Ensure that SQL queries are parameterized. This means using placeholders for parameters and binding user input to these placeholders.
• Use ORM Libraries: Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) libraries can help prevent SQLi by abstracting the SQL queries and providing safer ways to interact with the database.
• Input Validation and Sanitization: Validate and sanitize all user inputs to ensure they conform to expected formats and values.
• Least Privilege Principle: Ensure that the database user account used by the application has the minimum privileges necessary for its functionality.

References

• OWASP: SQL Injection
• Acunetix: SQL Injection
• OWASP: SQL Injection Prevention Cheat Sheet