What are the best practices for securely handling and storing user data in PHP applications?

To securely handle and store user data in PHP applications, it is important to use secure coding practices, such as input validation, parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection, encryption for sensitive data, and secure storage methods like hashing passwords. Additionally, it is crucial to keep PHP and server software up to date to patch any security vulnerabilities.

// Example of securely storing a user's password using password_hash function
$password = "user_password";
$hashed_password = password_hash($password, PASSWORD_DEFAULT);

// Example of verifying a user's password using password_verify function
if (password_verify($password, $hashed_password)) {
    echo "Password is correct";
} else {
    echo "Password is incorrect";
}