What are the security risks associated with using eval() function in PHP?

Using the eval() function in PHP can introduce security risks such as code injection and execution of arbitrary code. To mitigate these risks, it is recommended to avoid using eval() whenever possible and instead opt for alternative methods to achieve the desired functionality. 

// Avoid using eval() function
$code = $_POST['code'];
eval($code); // This is not secure

// Safer alternative using a switch statement
$code = $_POST['code'];
switch ($code) {
    case 'action1':
        // Perform action 1
        break;
    case 'action2':
        // Perform action 2
        break;
    default:
        // Default action
}

Keywords

eval security risks PHP code injection vulnerability

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