How do I prevent SQL injection

Preventing SQL injection is crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of your application. SQL injection occurs when an attacker is able to manipulate SQL queries by injecting malicious code through user input. To prevent SQL injection, consider the following techniques:

  • Use Prepared Statements: Prepared statements ensure that SQL code is separated from the data, preventing attackers from altering the query structure.
  • Use Stored Procedures: Stored procedures can encapsulate SQL code and help in reducing the risk of injection attacks.
  • Input Validation: Always validate and sanitize user input to ensure that it meets expected formats.
  • Use ORM: Object-relational mappers (ORMs) can help manage SQL queries in a way that minimizes risk.
  • Limit Database Permissions: Ensuring that the database user has only the necessary privileges can minimize the impact of an attack.

Implementing these practices helps in securing your application against SQL injections and enhances overall database security.

// Example using prepared statements in PHP $stmt = $pdo->prepare("SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = :username"); $stmt->bindParam(':username', $username); $stmt->execute(); $user = $stmt->fetch();

SQL Injection Prevention Prepared Statements Secure Coding Practices