How can PHP developers ensure proper data handling and validation when using form inputs to pass parameters to functions for processing?

PHP developers can ensure proper data handling and validation by using PHP functions like htmlspecialchars() to prevent XSS attacks and filter_input() to sanitize input data. They should also validate input data against expected formats using functions like filter_var() or regular expressions. Additionally, developers should always use prepared statements or parameterized queries when interacting with databases to prevent SQL injection attacks.

// Example of proper data handling and validation for form inputs
$name = isset($_POST['name']) ? htmlspecialchars($_POST['name']) : '';
$email = isset($_POST['email']) ? filter_var($_POST['email'], FILTER_VALIDATE_EMAIL) : '';

if (!empty($name) && !empty($email)) {
    // Process the data
    // Use prepared statements or parameterized queries when interacting with databases
}