SQL injection is a code injection technique that exploits vulnerabilities in database-driven web applications. It occurs when user input is not validated or sanitized for string literal escape characters that are part of SQL statements. This allows attackers to interfere with the queries and obtain unauthorized access to sensitive data or make changes to the database. The document then provides step-by-step instructions on how to scan for vulnerabilities, determine database details like name and tables, extract data like user credentials, bypass protections like magic quotes, and use tools to automate the process.