What are the advantages and disadvantages of using URL parameters for filtering database queries in PHP?

When using URL parameters for filtering database queries in PHP, the advantage is that it allows for easy customization and dynamic filtering of data. However, it can also pose security risks if not properly sanitized and validated, potentially leading to SQL injection attacks. 

// Example of using URL parameters for filtering database queries in PHP

// Retrieve and sanitize URL parameters
$filter = isset($_GET['filter']) ? $_GET['filter'] : '';
$filter = htmlspecialchars($filter); // Sanitize input

// Build and execute SQL query
$query = "SELECT * FROM table WHERE column = '$filter'";
$result = mysqli_query($connection, $query);

// Loop through results and display data
while($row = mysqli_fetch_assoc($result)) {
    echo $row['column_name'];
}

Keywords

URL parameters filtering database queries advantages disadvantages

Related Questions