How can filter_input() be used to handle parameters passed in PHP 7 and prevent errors?

When handling parameters passed in PHP, it's essential to sanitize and validate user input to prevent security vulnerabilities and errors. Using the filter_input() function in PHP 7 allows you to filter input data based on a specified filter type, ensuring that the data is safe to use in your application. By using filter_input() with appropriate filter types, you can prevent common issues like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and other security threats.

// Example of using filter_input() to handle parameters in PHP 7
$user_input = filter_input(INPUT_POST, 'user_input', FILTER_SANITIZE_STRING);

if ($user_input === false) {
    // Handle error, input not valid
} else {
    // Proceed with sanitized user input
}