A Complete Guide to Database Security Testing
Tags: database, security, testing, webdev
Published: 2023-03-14 08:24:01

Database security analysis is carried out to identify weak points inside the database system's defenses as well as security flaws in security protocols. The primary goal of database [security testing](https://www.qasource.com/security-testing-services) has always been to identify weaknesses in a system and ascertain whether its information and assets are secure from prospective attackers. When conducted consistently, security testing outlines a method to quickly find potential flaws.

## Methods for Database Security Testing 
Here are the commonly used methods for testing database security:-

- Testing for Penetration
A penetration test involves attacking a computer system to look for security gaps that could allow access to the system, its features, and its data.

- Assessing Risk
Risk finding is the process of determining the risk associated with the type of loss and the likelihood that a vulnerability will arise. Numerous interviews, debates, and analyses are used within the organization to come to this conclusion.

## Test for SQL Injection
It entails examining user inputs made in application fields. For instance, it shouldn't be possible to enter a special character such as "," or ";" in any text box inside a user application. Whenever a database fault is encountered, it signifies that a query including user input was inserted and then run by the application. The program is susceptible to SQL injection in this situation.

## Cracking Passwords
When completing database system verification, this is the most crucial check. Attackers can employ a password-cracking program or try to guess a username/password combination to gain access to vital data. Such common passwords are readily available online, and password-cracking software is also available freely.

## Review of the Database System’s Security
A security audit is a procedure for periodically assessing a company's security policies to see if relevant requirements are being adhered to. The security policy can be defined according to a variety of security standards, and the set guidelines can then be evaluated in relation to those criteria. Examples of the most popular security standards include BS15999, ISO 27001, and others.

## Common Tools for Database Security Testing
The commonly used tools for database security are as follows:-

- Zed Attack Proxy
This penetration-testing program looks for weaknesses in online applications. Because of this, it is the best tool for developers as well as functionality testers who are inexperienced with penetration testing because it is intended to be used by persons with a wide variety of security experiences. It frequently runs on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.

- Paros
These scanners allow for the interception and modification of all HTTP and HTTPS data sent back and forth between server and client, including cookies and form fields. Cross-platform Java JRE/JDK 1.4.2 or higher is utilized with it.

- Social Engineer Toolkit
This is open-source software, and human components rather than system parts are attacked. You can send emails, java applets, and other content with the attack code. It is preferred for Microsoft Windows, Apple Mac OS X, and Linux.

- Skipfish
Their websites are scanned for vulnerabilities using this technique. The tool's reports are intended to provide the basis for expert web application security evaluations. With Linux, FreeBSD, macOS X, or Windows, it is the preferred option.

- Vega
It's a free, open-source, multi-platform software for detecting cross-site scripting (XSS), SQL injection, and other security flaws in web applications. It is favored particularly for Java, Linux, and Windows. 

- Wapiti 
An open-sourced, web-based program called Wapiti examines the web pages of a web application to look for scripts and forms in which it can insert data. It was created using Python and is capable of detecting command execution, file handling issues, database, XSS, LDAP, and CRLF injections.

- Scarab Web
It is used to analyze applications that interact using HTTP/HTTPS protocols and is developed in Java. Developers that are capable of writing their own code are the target audience for this tool. It is independent of the OS.

### Conclusion
The task of incorporating [database security services](https://blog.qasource.com/a-complete-guide-to-database-security-testing) is challenging and complicated. Partnering with a qualified application testing firm like QASource is always encouraged, even though the aforementioned practices could help with the procedure. Visit QASource now to deploy premium database security testing services into your software business.