Description: Database hacking refers to the act of exploiting vulnerabilities in database systems, which can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information. This type of hacking can be carried out by malicious individuals as well as ethical hackers, who seek to identify and fix security flaws. Databases are fundamental for storing and managing data in various applications, from enterprise systems to online platforms. Therefore, their security is crucial for protecting the integrity and confidentiality of information. Database hacking involves techniques such as SQL injection, where an attacker inserts malicious code into SQL queries to manipulate the database. Additionally, it may include the use of automated tools to scan and exploit known vulnerabilities. The practice of ethical hacking in this context focuses on identifying weaknesses before they can be exploited by malicious actors, thus contributing to the improvement of information system security.
History: Database hacking began to gain notoriety in the 1990s with the rise of the Internet and the increased use of online databases. One of the most notable incidents was the attack on T-Mobile’s database in 2000, where customer data was exposed. As databases became more complex and critical to business operations, so did hacking techniques. In 2005, the attack on ChoicePoint’s database resulted in the exposure of personal data of over 163,000 individuals, leading to a greater focus on database security.
Uses: Database hacking is primarily used in the field of cybersecurity to identify and remediate vulnerabilities in database systems. Ethical hackers conduct penetration testing to assess the security of databases and help organizations protect their information. Additionally, it is used in security audits and regulatory compliance, where it is necessary to ensure that databases meet specific security standards.
Examples: An example of database hacking is SQL injection, where an attacker inserts malicious SQL code into an input form to access unauthorized data. Another notable case was the Equifax database breach in 2017, where personal data of approximately 147 million people was exposed due to a vulnerability in their database management system.
