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SQL injection

SQL Injection

What is it?

SQL Injection (SQLi) is one of the most dangerous and common web application vulnerabilities. It occurs when an attacker manipulates a website’s database query by injecting malicious SQL code into input fields, URLs, or cookies. This allows unauthorised access to sensitive data, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and more.

Here's how it works:

Web applications often use Structured Query Language (SQL) to communicate with databases. When user input is not properly validated or sanitised, attackers can insert malicious SQL statements into a query. For example, instead of entering a username, an attacker might input a line of code that can trick the database into returning all user records, bypassing authentication entirely.

Types of SQL injection attacks

  1. Classic SQL Injection: Directly manipulates SQL queries through input fields.
  2. Blind SQL Injection: The attacker asks the database true or false questions and determines the answer based on the application’s response.
  3. Time-Based Blind SQLi: Uses delays in database responses to infer information.
  4. Out-of-Band SQLi: Exploits features like DNS or HTTP to extract data when other methods fail.

Real-World impact

SQL injection attacks have led to some of the most high-profile data breaches in history. They can result in:

  • Data theft
  • Loss of data integrity
  • Unauthorised administrative access
  • Complete system compromise

Organisations of all sizes are at risk, especially those with poorly secured web applications.

How to prevent SQL injections

Protecting against SQL injections involves a combination of secure coding practices and robust security measures:

  • Use Prepared Statements (Parameterized Queries): These separate SQL code from user input, making injections nearly impossible.
  • Input Validation: Always validate and sanitise user inputs.
  • Use ORM Frameworks: Object-Relational Mapping tools like Hibernate or Entity Framework help abstract SQL queries and reduce risk.
  • Limit Database Permissions: Ensure applications only have the minimum necessary access.
  • Regular Security Testing: Conduct vulnerability scans and penetration testing to identify and fix weaknesses.

Tools for detecting SQL injections

Several tools can help detect and prevent SQL injection vulnerabilities:

  • OWASP ZAP
  • SQLMap
  • Burp Suite
  • Acunetix

These tools simulate attacks and help developers identify and patch vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.

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