Why is it important to properly format string values when inserting them into a MySQL database using PHP?

When inserting string values into a MySQL database using PHP, it is important to properly format them to prevent SQL injection attacks and ensure data integrity. By using prepared statements and parameter binding, you can securely insert string values into the database without risking malicious code execution.

// Assuming $conn is the database connection object

// Prepare a SQL statement with a placeholder for the string value
$stmt = $conn->prepare("INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES (?)");

// Bind the string value to the placeholder
$stmt->bind_param("s", $string_value);

// Set the value of $string_value and execute the statement
$string_value = "Your string value";
$stmt->execute();