Injection attacks are a type of attack wherein malicious code is inserted into vulnerable data structures and input from users. These attacks can take many forms, but the intent is primarily to gain control of a system or database by exploiting misconfigurations. When successful, the attacker will gain access to privileged information stored in these systems.
Injection attacks can be either Structured Query Language (SQL) or script injections. In an SQL injection attack, hackers use the manipulation of structured query language (SQL) code in order to access data or modify data within the target system. They may also use techniques such as blind data injection, blind SQL injection, Union-based attacks, or other techniques to bypass authentication measures and other system security. Script injections occur when malicious scripts are inputted into web applications which take user input and process it or send it back as an output.
The primary defense against these attacks is to ensure that programs adhere to secure coding standards. Good coding practices should ensure that user input is validated and sanitized prior to processing. This prevents malicious code from being inserted into the system or into the data structures. It is also important to keep software up-to-date with the latest security patches to limit the ability of attackers to gain unauthorized access.
Injection attacks are an ever-present threat to the integrity of computer systems and data. Having adequate security measures in place is the best way to protect systems from these attacks. Keeping applications up-to-date with the latest security patches, enabling the secure coding standards, and monitoring user input are all key steps to helping secure systems from injection attacks.
