What are the advantages of using filter_input() in PHP for handling user input compared to traditional methods like isset()?

When handling user input in PHP, using filter_input() provides advantages over traditional methods like isset() because it allows you to validate and sanitize input in a single function call. This helps prevent common security vulnerabilities such as SQL injection and cross-site scripting attacks. Additionally, filter_input() provides built-in filters for common input types, making it easier to ensure data integrity.

$user_input = filter_input(INPUT_POST, 'user_input', FILTER_SANITIZE_STRING);
if($user_input){
    // Process the sanitized user input
} else {
    // Handle invalid input
}