SQL Injection Challenge 5 in OWASP Security Shepherd involves exploiting a vulnerable coupon code input field to retrieve a VIP code via UNION-based SQL injection. The challenge, which stems from unsanitized user input in a SELECT query, requires injecting payloads like ' UNION SELECT coupon_code FROM coupons WHERE '1'='1
The challenge forces the user to move beyond basic exploitation and think about how the escaping function operates. The backend's goal is to neutralize single quotes to prevent the attacker from breaking out of the SQL query's string context. However, the escaping function is applied recursively or without proper input validation.
Then, to extract flag (assuming you have a second injection point after login), you use a vulnerable parameter in the logged-in area. Sql Injection Challenge 5 Security Shepherd
This command fetches the latest version of Security Shepherd, allowing you to run the entire training suite in an isolated container.
Pay attention to the URL or the session tokens after a "successful" login; the key is often hidden there. 🚫 How to Prevent This To stop SQL injection in real-world apps: SQL Injection Challenge 5 in OWASP Security Shepherd
' OR IF(MID(VERSION(),1,1)='5',SLEEP(5),1) --
Understanding this challenge is crucial for penetration testers and software engineers aiming to grasp the mechanics of injection vulnerabilities. 🏗️ Core Concept: Anatomy of the Vulnerability However, the escaping function is applied recursively or
To solve this challenge, you need to use double quotes to break the SQL string since single quotes are being neutralized:
Use with SLEEP() and IF() :
Navigate to the interface inside OWASP Security Shepherd . Submit a benign test value to establish baseline behavior. Next, inject a probe payload to test the escaping routine: \' OR 1=1; -- Use code with caution. Step 2: Analyze the Database Query Construction
: Submit the payload. If successful, the query will return all rows (e.g., all coupons or user data), revealing the result key or a "VIP Coupon Code". Information Security Stack Exchange Tool-Based Solution (sqlmap)