The original title is 9 words: "I Downloaded a Free PHP Script. It Was Stealing Data"

Short summary

A developer discovered that a free PHP script contained a malicious data-harvesting backdoor programmed to silently exfiltrate server credentials, environment details, and database information using obfuscation techniques like base64_decode and eval. The article identifies critical security red flags and teaches essential best practices: always review and understand third-party code before deployment, prefer trusted platforms like GitHub and official package managers, watch for suspicious functions, and perform thorough security audits.

• •Free PHP script contained a hidden backdoor silently harvesting server credentials and environment details
• •Obfuscation techniques like base64_decode and eval mask malicious intent
• •Best practices: review code before deployment, use trusted sources, audit for suspicious functions

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