In the modern world, a huge amount of confidential data is stored in databases. Therefore, their protection is a priority. One of the main threats to database security is the SQL Injection attack, which aims to “inject” special SQL code into the target system. After performing this manipulation, the attacker is given the opportunity to add, delete or change data in the database. The primary target of an SQL injection attack is usually a web application that uses a database to process and store information.

To carry out an SQL injection attack, an attacker uses various types of vulnerabilities in the operation of a web application and data processing. By manipulating user data, it establishes unauthorized access to the target system, after which it can carry out a series of attacks to disrupt the operation of the network infrastructure or server. After carrying out the attack, the hacker can not only extract sensitive data from the database, but also establish a direct connection to the servers where the target web application is located.

As we can see in the picture, an SQL injection attack was carried out on one of the sites, after which personal data was deleted from the user’s table. Specifically, the username, password (hashed and unhashed data), first name and last name are deleted. This means that a vulnerability in the web application has led to unauthorized access to personal data.

However, in many cases, in parallel with the extraction of personal information from the database, the network devices on which the web application is located are hacked.

The image shows that after the SQL injection attack, the attacker copied the /etc/passwd file from the Linux server. With this action he compromised the entire system.

Protection against SQL injection attacks

We have seen the consequences that can arise after this type of attack, let's look at ways to protect yourself, prevent an SQL injection attack, protect personal data and network infrastructure:

• The first method is to check and clear data entered into a web application from special characters that are used to carry out SQL injection attacks. A proper data verification method will help prevent an attack.

• Another method is to prevent unauthorized queries from being sent to the database. By doing this, we will eliminate the possibility of sending SQL code to the server, which could perform an SQL injection attack.

• Limiting privileges and defining them correctly is another important principle. Restricting access to databases and web application components helps prevent attacks by an attacker with elevated privileges.

• Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) can provide an additional layer of protection against SQL injection attacks. WAFs can detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts based on predefined patterns and whitelists.

Thus, SQL injection is a very dangerous attack, detection and elimination of which is one of the main tasks to protect the integrity of user personal data and network devices.