Which attack allows an attacker to take control of a database by inserting special commands instead of the intended data?

The correct choice addresses a specific type of web security vulnerability that occurs in applications that use SQL databases. SQL Injection involves executing arbitrary SQL code through the input fields of a web application. This method allows attackers to manipulate database queries by injecting malicious SQL statements, which can lead to unauthorized access, data leaks, or even complete control over the database.

One of the defining features of SQL Injection is that it exploits flaws in the application's input validation process. When user input is not properly sanitized, attackers can craft inputs that include SQL commands, tricking the application into executing those commands rather than treating them as regular data. This can allow them to retrieve sensitive information, alter data, or perform administrative operations on the database.

Understanding SQL Injection is crucial for developing secure applications, as it highlights the importance of implementing proper input validation and utilizing prepared statements or parameterized queries to mitigate this risk.