Exploiting SQL Injection with sqlmap

When to Use

• During authorized web application penetration testing engagements
• When manual testing reveals potential SQL injection points in parameters, headers, or cookies
• For validating SQL injection findings from automated scanners like Burp Suite or OWASP ZAP
• When you need to demonstrate the impact of SQL injection by extracting data from backend databases
• During CTF challenges involving SQL injection exploitation

Prerequisites

• Authorization: Written penetration testing agreement (Rules of Engagement) for the target
• sqlmap: Install via pip install sqlmap or apt install sqlmap on Kali Linux
• Python 3.6+: Required runtime for sqlmap
• Burp Suite (optional): For capturing and replaying HTTP requests
• Target access: Network connectivity to the target web application
• Browser with proxy: Firefox with FoxyProxy for intercepting requests