Manipulate database queries. Extract data. Execute commands. OWASP Top 10 #1 vulnerability.
#1 on OWASP Top 10 - Database Exploitation
Requires: Web application access • Difficulty: Low • Impact: Critical
💻 Desktop Experience Available
View this module on desktop for an interactive SQL Injection exploitation simulation.
SQL Injection (SQLi) is a web application vulnerability that occurs when untrusted user input is directly concatenated into SQL queries without proper sanitization. Attackers can inject malicious SQL code to manipulate database queries, extract sensitive data, and even execute operating system commands on the database server.
$query = "SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = '" . $_GET["username"] . "'";User input is directly concatenated into SQL query. No validation or parameterization.
If user enters: admin' OR '1'='1
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = 'admin' OR '1'='1'This returns all users because '1'='1' is always true.
Why It's Still #1 on OWASP Top 10: Despite being known since 1998, SQL injection remains the most common web vulnerability. Many developers still use string concatenation instead of parameterized queries. Legacy applications often have SQLi vulnerabilities that are difficult to fix.
SQL Injection techniques should only be used in authorized penetration testing, bug bounty programs, or controlled lab environments. Unauthorized access to databases is illegal under CFAA and equivalent laws worldwide. Always obtain written permission before testing.
Target: Corporate Database // Vector: SQL Injection