1. What is Database Security?
Simple: Keeping your database safe from hackers, leaks, and mistakes.
Intermediate: Protecting stored data from unauthorized access, corruption, or theft using
controls like encryption, access rules, and monitoring.
2. Why is Database Security Important?
Prevents data theft (credit cards, passwords, personal info).
Stops hackers from changing or deleting important data.
Keeps businesses compliant with laws (GDPR, HIPAA).
3. Common Database Attacks
A. SQL Injection (SQLi)
Simple: Hackers trick the database into running bad commands.
Intermediate: Attackers insert malicious SQL code into input fields (like login forms) to steal or
corrupt data.
Example:
sql
Copy
-- Instead of a password, a hacker types:
' OR '1'='1
-- This tricks the database into allowing access.
B. Unauthorized Access
Simple: Someone gets into the database who shouldn’t.
Intermediate: Weak passwords, misconfigured permissions, or stolen credentials let attackers
in.
C. Data Leaks
Simple: Private info accidentally gets out.
Intermediate: Misconfigured cloud storage (like open Amazon S3 buckets) exposes sensitive
data.
4. How to Secure a Database
A. Use Strong Access Controls
Simple: Only let trusted people in.
Intermediate:
o Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Give users only the permissions they need
(e.g., read-only for reports).
o Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Require a second check (like a phone code)
before access.
B. Encrypt Data
Simple: Scramble data so only authorized users can read it.
Intermediate:
o At Rest: Encrypt stored data (e.g., TDE in SQL Server).
o In Transit: Use SSL/TLS for connections.
C. Stop SQL Injection
Simple: Don’t let users type direct commands.
Intermediate:
o Use parameterized queries (prepared statements).
o Deploy a Web Application Firewall (WAF).
D. Monitor & Log Activity
Simple: Keep an eye on who’s doing what.
Intermediate:
o Database Activity Monitoring (DAM): Tools like IBM Guardium track suspicious
actions.
o SIEM (Security Logs): Splunk or ELK Stack analyze logs for threats.
E. Regular Backups
Simple: Save copies in case something goes wrong.
Intermediate:
o Store encrypted backups offline.
o Test disaster recovery plans.
5. Tools for Database Security
Tool Simple Use Intermediate Use
Firewal
Blocks hackers Filters SQL traffic
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Snort Detects attacks Network IDS for SQL injection
Vault Stores passwords Manages database secrets securely
OSSEC Monitors files Host-based intrusion detection