CompTIA DataSys+ (DS0-001)Data and Database SecurityMedium
A web application is experiencing unusual database errors, including unhandled exceptions related to SQL syntax and unexpected query results. The development team suspects a malicious actor is attempting to exploit vulnerabilities. Which of the following attack types is most likely causing these issues?
- ACross-Site Scripting (XSS)
- BSQL Injection
- CBrute-force Attack
- DDenial of Service (DoS)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. SQL Injection
SQL Injection attacks involve inserting malicious SQL code into input fields, leading to unexpected query results, syntax errors, and potentially unauthorized data access or manipulation, which aligns with the observed database errors.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. XSS attacks inject client-side scripts into web pages viewed by other users, affecting the user's browser, not directly causing database errors on the server.
- C. Brute-force attacks involve systematically trying many passwords or keys, which would typically manifest as failed login attempts, not SQL syntax errors.
- D. DoS attacks aim to make a service unavailable, typically by overwhelming it with traffic, not by causing SQL syntax errors.
SQL Injection
A code injection technique used to attack data-driven applications, in which malicious SQL statements are inserted into an entry field for execution.
- Exploits vulnerabilities in how applications handle user input.
- Can lead to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion.
- Often results in unexpected database errors or data leakage.
Memory trick: Attacks on databases are like trying to trick the data's gatekeeper.