GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies Practice Test

What defines a command injection?

1. A model for user input validation

2. A vulnerability allowing execution of arbitrary commands in a web application

3. A method of data transmission that bypasses encryption

4. An error in application protocols

The correct answer is: A vulnerability allowing execution of arbitrary commands in a web application

A command injection vulnerability refers to a flaw that allows an attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the host operating system via a vulnerable application. This typically occurs when user input is improperly validated or sanitized, allowing malicious input to be processed by the system. In the context of web applications, this type of vulnerability provides a direct line for attackers to run shell commands, potentially leading to unauthorized actions such as data theft, system compromise, or even gaining administrative privileges. By leveraging this weakness, attackers can manipulate the application's command-processing functions to execute their own code, making it a serious security concern. The other options focus on different security concepts or vulnerabilities that do not pertain directly to command injection. For instance, user input validation models are critical for preventing various types of injections but are not exclusive to command injection. Similarly, methods of data transmission that bypass encryption and errors in application protocols relate to other facets of cybersecurity rather than the specific nature of command injection.