During a web application penetration test, the team observes that the signup page logs several attempts containing special characters intended to terminate existing SQL commands and append new instructions. Which security control should the developers implement to ensure user input is never executed as part of the query?
Increase password complexity rules in the access policy
Prompt users for an additional credential during registration
Rotate domain administrator keys on a frequent schedule
Use parameterized queries so data is always handled as parameters
Implementing parameterized (prepared) queries forces the database engine to treat all user-supplied content strictly as data. Because the SQL structure is pre-compiled, any injected text is bound as a parameter and cannot alter the query logic. While an extra credential prompt, frequent key rotation, or stricter password complexity all strengthen other aspects of security, they do not separate user input from executable database commands and therefore will not stop injection attempts.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What are injection attacks in web applications?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
How do statements that isolate data from executable queries prevent injection attacks?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What is the difference between key rotation and sanitizing input data?