SQL Injection (SQLi) is a critical web security vulnerability that allows attackers to manipulate SQL queries by injecting malicious input into application fields. It can lead to unauthorized data access, data loss, or even full system compromise.
🧨 What Is SQL Injection?
SQL Injection occurs when:
- A web application fails to properly sanitize user input.
- Malicious SQL code is inserted into input fields (like login forms or search bars).
- The application executes this code as part of a legitimate SQL query.
Example:
Input: ' OR 1=1 --
Query: SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = '' OR 1=1 --' AND password = '';
This query always returns true, potentially granting unauthorized access.
🔓 What Can Attackers Do?
- Bypass authentication (e.g., log in without credentials)
- Access sensitive data (e.g., credit card numbers, passwords)
- Modify or delete data
- Execute administrative operations on the database
- Escalate privileges or even gain control of the server
🛡️ How to Prevent SQL Injection
Use Prepared Statements (Parameterized Queries)
Avoid dynamic SQL. Use frameworks like JDBC (Java), JPA, or Spring Data with parameter binding.Input Validation and Escaping
Validate input types, lengths, and formats. Escape special characters if needed.Use ORM Tools
Tools like Hibernate or JPA abstract SQL and reduce injection risk.Least Privilege Principle
Ensure the database user has only the necessary permissions.Web Application Firewalls (WAFs)
Add an extra layer of protection against known attack patterns.Regular Security Testing
Perform code reviews, penetration testing, and use tools like OWASP ZAP or Burp Suite.
🧠 Real-World Case
In 2019, a misconfigured web app led to a Capital One data breach, where attackers exploited a vulnerability (including SQLi) to access over 100 million customer records.
If you're working with Spring Boot or Java-based microservices, I can show you how to implement SQL injection-safe data access using JdbcTemplate, JPA, or Spring Data.
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