What Is SQL Injection?
A vulnerability where an attacker inserts malicious SQL code into a query through user input. If the application passes user input directly into SQL queries without sanitization, the attacker can read, modify, or delete data, and in some cases execute commands on the database server.
In Laravel Applications
Laravel's Eloquent ORM uses parameterized queries by default, which prevents SQL injection. Vulnerabilities are introduced when using DB::raw(), DB::statement(), or whereRaw() with unescaped user input. Always use parameter binding: DB::select("SELECT * FROM users WHERE email = ?", [$email]).
Example
DB::select("SELECT * FROM users WHERE id = " . $request->id) is vulnerable. An attacker can send id=1 OR 1=1 to dump all users. Use DB::select("SELECT * FROM users WHERE id = ?", [$request->id]) instead.
Related Terms
OWASP (Open Worldwide Application Security Project)
A nonprofit foundation that produces freely available tools, documentation, and standards for web application security. OWASP is best known for the OWASP Top 10, a list of the ten most critical web application security risks, updated every few years based on real-world data.
Vulnerability
A weakness in a system that can be exploited by an attacker to perform unauthorized actions. Vulnerabilities can exist in code, configuration, infrastructure, or processes. They range in severity from informational to critical.
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
A vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious JavaScript into web pages viewed by other users. The injected script runs in the victim's browser with the same privileges as legitimate scripts, allowing the attacker to steal session tokens, redirect users, or modify page content.
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