What is an SQL injection attack and how does it work? Learn how attackers use web form inputs to inject malicious SQL code, manipulate databases, and compromise sensitive data—essential for the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Cybersecurity 100-160 exam.
Table of Contents
Question
An attacker injects malicious SQL code into a web form to access a database. What type of attack is this?
A. Cross-site scripting (XSS)
B. SQL injection
C. Buffer overflow
D. Privilege escalation
E. Denial-of-service (DoS)
Answer
B. SQL injection
Explanation
SQL injection allows attackers to manipulate databases by injecting malicious code into input fields.
The attack described—where an attacker injects malicious SQL code into a web form to access a database—is a SQL injection attack.
Detailed Explanation:
SQL injection (SQLi) is a code injection technique that exploits vulnerabilities in web applications by inserting malicious SQL statements into input fields, such as web forms, which are then executed by the application’s database server.
Attackers identify input fields that are not properly sanitized or validated and craft SQL queries that alter the intended logic of the application’s database operations. This can allow them to:
- Bypass authentication and log in as another user (often as an administrator)
- View, modify, or delete sensitive data
- Execute administrative operations on the database
- In some cases, execute commands on the underlying operating system
For example, entering admin’ OR ‘1’=’1 in a login form could change the SQL query to always return true, granting unauthorized access.
The consequences of a successful SQL injection attack include credential theft, unauthorized access, data alteration or deletion, and potentially full compromise of the database server.
SQL injection allows attackers to manipulate databases by injecting malicious code into input fields, exploiting insecure application code to gain unauthorized access or control.
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