SQL injection attack is a technique mostly used to attack data driven applications and websites. Further, it is done by entering crafted SQL statements in an input field of an application form or interface. The purpose of the attack is to bypass the input validation control of the web application and get unauthorized access to the backend or the database part of the application. Once an attacker gains access to the database, she/he may perform heinous operations such as changing credentials, dumping the database contents, tempering the integrity of data and so on activities.
The best protection against SQL injection attacks is proper input validation control that is capable of filtering out all special characters and other variables that may expose database systems. Patching and upgrading systems and applications to the latest version also helps to minimize these attacks
SQL Injection is a type of exploit (method of gaining access). And there are many types of exploits such as Backdoors, Debug code, SQL Injection, Cross-scripting, Phishing and so on.
SQL Injection tricks the SQL engine to execute unintended commands and exploits vulnerabilities in the application.
Some of the preventing mechanisms includes, but not limited to:
- Avoid dynamic SQL with concatenated input and instead use static SQL and bind arguments.
- Validate input and handle exceptions
- Always test SQL codes for SQL injection flaws.