Investigating NoSQL Injection Attacks on MongoDB Web Applications

Modern web applications are increasingly data-intensive and handle a wide variety of semi-structured and unstructured data. Traditional relational databases were not designed to manage such data, and using them often leads to complications in storage, retrieval, and performance degradation. As a result, NoSQL databases have become more popular in recent years. With key advantages such as high performance, scalability, and support for diverse data structures, NoSQL databases are particularly well suited for handling large volumes of data, making them a popular choice for small businesses seeking efficient storage solutions. However, storing sensitive information in these databases makes them targets for attackers aiming to steal data or compromise applications. One of the major security threats to NoSQL databases is NoSQL injection, which attackers exploit to gain unauthorized access. This research investigates how MongoDB-based web applications can be exploited through simulated NoSQL injection attacks, examines their impact, and evaluates mitigation techniques to prevent these security risks. The findings aim to help NoSQL database developers understand the mechanisms of NoSQL injection attacks and implement stronger security measures to protect sensitive data.