Union-Based SQL Injection: Logging in with a Temporary User in OWASP Juice Shop
Learn about Union-Based SQL Injection by solving the Ephemeral Accountant challenge in OWASP Juice Shop.

Lab overview
Union-Based SQL Injection is a technique used to manipulate query results by combining data from multiple sources within a database. This lab focuses on exploiting a login query in the OWASP Juice Shop application to create a temporary user dynamically during query execution. By leveraging this advanced SQL Injection technique, you will bypass the authentication mechanism without leaving any persistent changes in the database.
In this lab, you will craft a UNION SELECT payload to inject a temporary user into the query result. This will allow you to log in with a non-existent account, demonstrating how such vulnerabilities can be exploited in real-world scenarios and emphasizing the importance of securing database queries against injection attacks.
Objectives
Upon completing this lab, you will:
- Understand how Union-Based SQL Injection works to manipulate query results.
- Craft advanced SQL Injection payloads to bypass authentication.
- Learn about the risks associated with improperly validated database queries.
Who is this lab for?
This lab is ideal for:
- Developers looking to understand and prevent SQL Injection vulnerabilities.
- Security Enthusiasts aiming to explore advanced query manipulation techniques.
- IT Professionals learning about secure authentication practices and database query protections.
Verified against your live environment
An automated validation engine inspects your actual resources and configurations as you work. Completion means the task was performed — not multiple choice, real-world proficiency.
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Related reading
Environment
Every lab includes
- Real environment, pre-credentialed
- Automated checks on every step
- Isolated sandbox, auto cleanup
- AI-recommended next steps
Lab curriculum
- 01
Understanding Union-Based SQL Injection
- 02
Logging in as a Non-Existent User
1 automated check
- 03
Mitigation Strategies and Key Takeaways
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