How can PHP developers ensure that form data is securely processed and stored in a database, such as MSSQL, without exposing vulnerabilities?

To ensure that form data is securely processed and stored in a database like MSSQL, PHP developers should use parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Additionally, data should be properly sanitized and validated before being inserted into the database. It's also important to implement proper error handling to prevent sensitive information from being exposed.

// Establish a connection to the MSSQL database
$serverName = "localhost";
$connectionOptions = array(
    "Database" => "dbName",
    "Uid" => "username",
    "PWD" => "password"
);
$conn = sqlsrv_connect($serverName, $connectionOptions);

// Sanitize and validate form data
$name = filter_var($_POST['name'], FILTER_SANITIZE_STRING);
$email = filter_var($_POST['email'], FILTER_SANITIZE_EMAIL);

// Prepare and execute a parameterized query
$sql = "INSERT INTO tableName (name, email) VALUES (?, ?)";
$params = array($name, $email);
$stmt = sqlsrv_query($conn, $sql, $params);

if ($stmt === false) {
    die(print_r(sqlsrv_errors(), true));
}

// Close the database connection
sqlsrv_close($conn);