SQL Injection (SQLi) is a form of injection attack designed to execute malicious SQL statements, exerting control over a database server associated with a web application. By exploiting SQL Injection vulnerabilities, attackers can circumvent security measures implemented in applications, bypassing authentication and authorization protocols to access the entire SQL database. This technique empowers them to not only retrieve database content but also manipulate records by adding, modifying, or deleting data.
We must recognize that SQL Injection vulnerabilities pose a threat to any website or web application utilizing an SQL database, such as MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server, and others. The repercussions of such vulnerabilities extend beyond mere breaches of security, as malevolent actors may exploit them to gain unauthorized entry to sensitive data, encompassing customer information, personal details, trade secrets, intellectual property, and more. As one of the oldest, most widespread, and perilous web application vulnerabilities, SQL Injection attacks have earned the top position in the OWASP Top 10 2017 document, compiled by the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), highlighting their critical impact on web application security.
Example of an SQL injection attack:
SQL injection attacks manifest in various ways, with hackers targeting individual websites, blogs, or more substantial entities like banks. In the case of financial institutions, unauthorized access enables attackers to manipulate account balances or tamper with transaction histories. Even after the breach is remedied, the subsequent customer notifications can inflict severe damage on the bank’s reputation.
Illustrating the real-world impact of SQL injection attacks, the gaming industry serves as a notable example. Video games, being a colossal and lucrative sector, frequently become the focal point of many SQL injection attacks. Although predominantly targeting US-based companies, hackers also direct their attention to countries such as Germany and the UK. Once infiltrated, attackers within the gaming realm can pilfer money, in-game currency, and purchased items, incurring actual financial losses for the targeted company and its user base.
How do we prevent SQL injections on WordPress
There are 2 main ways to prevent SQL injections on WordPress. When possible you should follow both of these ways as opposed to just choosing one.
- Software update
When available, the best solution is always to update your plugins, theme, and WordPress to the latest version. Developers try to fix these types of vulnerabilities as soon as possible. To update, log into your admin interface. On the left toolbar select dashboard à updates. Here you will find all the updates that are available for your WordPress, plugins, and themes. - Install a firewall
Tailored for WordPress, Wordfence Security provides an additional firewall to thwart SQL injections, incorporates Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), and conducts malware scans, specifically targeting WordPress SQL injections.
The installation process is straightforward. Navigate to Plugins > Add New, search for Wordfence Security, and proceed to download the plugin. Upon completion, click on Activate. That’s all! The plugin is now active, allowing you to initiate malware scans at your convenience.
Find out if you are vulnerable to SQL injections
If you want to test your website for vulnerabilities and find out if you are vulnerable to SQL injections try Vulnscanner AI. You can sign up for free, add your website, and find out if your website is vulnerable to a host of attacks in minutes.
Conclusion
In this post we took a closer look at what an SQL Injection is, how it works, and how to keep your site safe from it. Vulnscanner AI can be a great resource to alert you if your site become vulnerable to SQL Injections. Feel free to contact us directly for more information on how we can help you to keep your website safe.