If you’re building web applications or APIs, securing your database should be one of your top priorities. Even a small oversight can lead to data breaches, leaked user information, or corrupted systems.
In this post, I’ll walk you through 7 common mistakes developers make when handling databases—and how to avoid them with real-world solutions.
❌ 1. Storing Plaintext Passwords
Never, ever store passwords as plain text.
What’s the risk?
If your database gets leaked, all user credentials are exposed.
✅ How to fix it:
Use strong hashing algorithms like bcrypt or argon2 with proper salting. For example, in Node.js:
❌ 2. No SQL Injection Protection
SQL injection is one of the most common (and dangerous) web vulnerabilities.
What’s the risk?
Attackers can manipulate your SQL queries to access or destroy data.
✅ How to fix it:
Use prepared statements or parameterized queries. Avoid string concatenation. For example, in Node js:
❌ 3. Exposing Database Ports to the Public
Don’t let your database accept connections from anywhere.
What’s the risk?
Open ports allow attackers to directly brute-force or exploit your DB.
✅ How to fix it:
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Restrict access to internal IP addresses only.
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Use VPCs or firewalls.
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Deploy backend and database inside the same network.
❌ 4. Using Default or Weak Credentials
What’s the risk?
Hackers often try common combinations like root:root or admin:1234.
✅ How to fix it:
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Change default credentials immediately after installation.
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Use strong, generated passwords.
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Store credentials securely with
.envfiles or secret managers.
❌ 5. Giving Too Much Database Access
Don’t use root or admin users for your application!
What’s the risk?
If the app gets hacked, attackers gain full control of your data.
✅ How to fix it:
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Create specific users with only the access they need (e.g., read-only).
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Use roles or privileges to control access.
❌ 6. No Encrypted or Scheduled Backups
What’s the risk?
Data loss from hacks, corruption, or accidental deletes.
✅ How to fix it:
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Set up daily or weekly backups automatically.
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Encrypt your backup files.
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Test recovery from backup regularly.
❌ 7. No Logging or Intrusion Detection
If something bad happens, will you even know?
What’s the risk?
Silent breaches or data manipulation without detection.
✅ How to fix it:
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Enable query and access logging (e.g., MySQL logs, Firebase logs).
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Use tools like Google Cloud Logging or AWS CloudWatch.
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Set alerts for unusual behavior (e.g., failed login attempts).
✅ Final Thoughts
Database security isn’t just a backend concern—it’s your responsibility as a developer to build secure applications from day one. These 7 mistakes are easy to fix once you know about them.
🔒 Stay alert, secure your data, and build apps users can trust.
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