How does an SQL injection attack affect database security?

An SQL injection attack affects database security primarily by manipulating database queries with malicious code. This type of attack takes advantage of vulnerabilities in an application's software when user input is not properly sanitized. By injecting SQL commands into input fields such as login forms or search boxes, an attacker can alter the intended SQL queries executed against the database.

This manipulation allows the attacker to perform unauthorized actions such as retrieving sensitive data, altering or deleting records, and executing administrative operations on the database. The potential consequences include data breaches, loss of data integrity, and compromised confidentiality, making it crucial for developers to implement secure coding practices, input validation, and parameterized queries to mitigate the risk of SQL injection attacks.

Other options are unrelated to the nature of SQL injection. For example, improving database performance is not an outcome of an attack, and while encryption of sensitive data is a critical aspect of securing data, it is not what an SQL injection does; it actually undermines security. Increasing user permissions does not align with the effects of SQL injection; rather, it is a concern that may arise from misuse of exploitative actions.