SQL (Structured Query Language) injection is a cyber attack that involves exploitation of databases with the misuse of SQL- the programming language used for database querying. SQL injection counted among the most effective forms of a cyber attack, allowing cybercriminals unauthorised access to databases storing sensitive information. Threat actors are able to modify data, erase data and create new records. A successful SQL injection attack allows a cyber attacker to acquire control over the entire database system.
SQL injection attacks conducted over significant period of time in phases. The cyber attacks in the form of SQL injection require thorough examination of an organisational structure with a full assessment of cyber security measures implemented by a company. To improve cyber security organisations can embark on applying security steps at each phase level to stop an attacker from gaining leverage.
The initial phase is the reconnaissance phase where the focus of malicious actor is information gathering, taking steps to learn about the operations of an enterprise. Reconnaissance phase involves research in which a threat actor patiently gathers information about key employees, examination of social media accounts, publicly available records including search engine results. During this phase adversaries may use hacking tools to detect open ports on web applications or systems in the pursuit of network access. The core objective remains on finding vulnerabilities in a short span of time whilst evading detection with the ambition of launching a rapid cyber attack despite executing least effort.
Technical weaponisation is the second phase of a SQL injection attack after reconnaissance phase helps to identify weak points and vulnerabilities. Weaknesses may exist in the form of misconfigurations, insecure coding practices that leave open backdoors and software bugs. Throughout the technical weaponisation phase threat actors create malicious payloads designed to target the known vulnerabilities while disrupting operations. Payloads are scripts, malware or other code injected into applications at risk. Hackers can utilise automation tools to create payloads fast, the use of automated tools combined with data extraction techniques in the form of Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attack can successfully inject payloads into a web application.
The use of cross-site scripting initiates the delivery phase of a SQL injection attack. Delivery phase focuses on sending the malicious payload, scripts or code to the intended target. Threat actors use various mechanisms for delivering the payloads from phishing email attempts to compromising websites with malicious code. Payloads include distinct commands crafted to exploit vulnerable web applications by gaining access to sensitive information from the system.
Using cross-site scripting (XSS) techniques malicious code is injected into web application via client-side scripting. If successful, the attacker is able to issue unauthorised commands remotely on the server-side of the web application. Cross-site scripting (XSS) process allows hackers to steal privileged information such as login credentials, personal and financial details.
Exploitation phase begins with the attacker gaining access to company resources; the adversary may take control of a database or the entire network. If the threat actors gain access to a privileged account for example SuperAdmin, the access is used to modify configurations, delete content or commit a more serious offence of creating accounts with privileged access. At this phase an attacker could remain undetected accessing sensitive data.
After exploiting the company resources an attacker may wish to proceed to the next stage of installing malicious payloads to the target network. The installation phase constitutes of backdoor installations to allow the adversary to execute commands for unauthorised access. Backdoors are installed using compromised credentials or by taking advantage of known vulnerabilities. The backdoor access allows a threat actor to issue commands remotely without authorization enabling the installation of malware, stealing data and changing settings. The backdoor access facilitates the attacker in obtaining root access which enables them to install software programs and evade security measures.
At the command and control stage the attacker has gained access, however does not deploy any malicious payloads. The goal remains to maintain remote access and establish full control of the system even if the internet connection is lost or the system is restarted. The command and control phase enables the threat actor surveillance capabilities and the ability to capture data as and when required. During this stage an adversary can deploy further malicious files to support them with data gathering.
Once satisfied with the overall progress made during the SQL injection attack, an attacker will launch their malicious payloads. The adversary will cause as much havoc as possible from minor attacks such as changing configurations and settings to expanding their access of the system. The threat actors may intensify the cyber attack by using the compromised system as part of greater plan to launch a distributed denial of services (DDOS) attack against other networks. At the same the cybercriminal will make all attempts to cover their tracks, evade detection and expand control. On successfully completing SQL injection mission the attacker disconnects remote access and erases all traces of unlawful activity.
SQL injection attacks cause enterprises financial and reputational damage. The backlash of a SQL injection attack affects the company reputability with negative publicity, and the impacted technical infrastructure generates revenue loss while reducing consumer trust. Protecting against SQL injection is necessary by implementing proactive cyber security measures to increase privileged access management and actively pursuing vulnerabilities to diminish the possibility of a SQL injection attack.
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