Which of the following identifies the coding language often used for web application scripting that attackers target?

The correct identification of PHP as a coding language often targeted by attackers for web application scripting stems from its widespread use in server-side web development. PHP is particularly popular for creating dynamic website content and is embedded within HTML to enhance functionality. Because of this, it often serves as an attractive target for attackers seeking to exploit vulnerabilities.

Attackers frequently aim for PHP-based applications due to common weaknesses such as improper input validation and outdated libraries, which can lead to security flaws like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and remote code execution. Given that many web applications are built on PHP frameworks, understanding its role in web application security is crucial.

While JavaScript is another prevalent language in web development, it primarily operates on the client side and is typically used for user interface enhancements instead of server-side logic. Python is a versatile language favored for various programming tasks, including web development, but is less commonly the primary focus of attackers targeting web applications when compared to PHP. HTML, being a markup language rather than a coding language, does not contain logic or functionality that can be exploited in the same way as scripting languages like PHP.