SQL injection (SQLi) is a security flaw that lets attackers insert malicious SQL code into application queries, allowing unauthorized data access or manipulation.
SQL injection is a vulnerability where user-supplied text is concatenated into SQL statements without proper sanitization. Attackers can modify the query’s logic, extract data, or alter the database.
The flaw occurs when applications build SQL strings through string concatenation instead of parameterized queries. Unsanitized input becomes executable code.
By crafting input like 1 OR 1=1, an attacker forces the WHERE clause to always be true, returning every row. Adding “; DROP TABLE users; --” can delete data.
The 2017 Equifax breach used SQLi to access 145 million records. Many CMS plugins, shopping carts, and IoT devices have suffered similar attacks.
Use prepared statements or stored procedures, enforce least-privilege DB accounts, validate and escape input, and keep ORM frameworks updated.
Parameters separate code from data. Placeholders (? or :id) tell the driver to treat values as literals, so injected keywords are never executed.
Escaping special characters (\', \") reduces risk in legacy code but cannot prevent all SQLi variants like Boolean-based blind attacks. Prefer parameters.
ORMs generate parameterized SQL by default. Misuse—such as raw() calls—re-opens the door to SQLi. Follow framework guidelines strictly.
Static analyzers (Semgrep), dynamic scanners (OWASP ZAP), and database firewalls spot tainted queries and anomalous patterns in real time.
Galaxy’s AI copilot auto-suggests parameterized syntax and flags unsafe string concatenation inside queries, helping teams ship secure SQL faster.
SQL injection remains one of the top OWASP risks, exposing sensitive data, undermining trust, and triggering costly compliance penalties. Understanding SQLi is essential for data engineers who design pipelines and analysts who query production databases, ensuring secure data operations and protecting customer information.
Yes. Despite modern frameworks, misconfigured code keeps SQLi in the annual OWASP Top 10.
They help, but only when parameters are bound. Dynamic SQL inside procedures can still be vulnerable.
Galaxy’s AI copilot recommends parameter placeholders, detects risky patterns, and enforces best practices within the query workflow.
No. Sanitization lowers risk but cannot replace parameterized queries and least-privilege database roles.
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