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Introduction
Cybersecurity professionals rely on a deep understanding of tools, commands, and methodologies to secure systems and exploit vulnerabilities ethically. This article compiles verified commands, code snippets, and step-by-step guides for Linux, Windows, API security, and cloud hardening, drawing from real-world certifications like CPTS, CRTO, and OSCP.
Learning Objectives
- Master essential Linux/Windows commands for penetration testing.
- Understand API security hardening techniques.
- Learn cloud vulnerability mitigation strategies.
1. Linux Privilege Escalation with SUID Binaries
Command:
find / -perm -4000 -type f 2>/dev/null
Explanation:
This command searches for SUID binaries, which can be exploited for privilege escalation. If a binary like `/usr/bin/bash` has SUID permissions, attackers can spawn a root shell:
/usr/bin/bash -p
2. Windows Lateral Movement with PsExec
Command:
PsExec.exe -u DOMAIN\user -p password \target_ip cmd.exe
Explanation:
PsExec executes commands on remote systems. Replace `DOMAIN\user` and `password` with valid credentials. Mitigate by restricting admin access and monitoring SMB traffic.
3. API Security: JWT Token Tampering
Exploit:
Decode a JWT token using:
echo "eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzdWIiOiIxMjM0NTY3ODkwIiwibmFtZSI6IkpvaG4gRG9lIiwiaWF0IjoxNTE2MjM5MDIyfQ.SflKxwRJSMeKKF2QT4fwpMeJf36POk6yJV_adQssw5c" | base64 -d
Mitigation:
Always validate JWT signatures and use strong algorithms like RS256.
4. Cloud Hardening: AWS S3 Bucket Permissions
Command:
aws s3api put-bucket-acl --bucket my-bucket --acl private
Explanation:
This command sets an S3 bucket to private. Ensure no buckets allow `”Principal”: “”` in their policies to prevent public access.
5. Vulnerability Exploitation: SQL Injection with SQLmap
Command:
sqlmap -u "http://example.com/page?id=1" --dbs
Explanation:
SQLmap automates SQL injection attacks. Defend by using prepared statements and input validation.
6. Network Reconnaissance with Nmap
Command:
nmap -sV -p 1-65535 target_ip
Explanation:
Scans all ports (-p 1-65535) and detects service versions (-sV). Limit exposure by closing unused ports.
7. Log Analysis for Intrusion Detection
Command (Linux):
grep "Failed password" /var/log/auth.log
Explanation:
Filters failed SSH login attempts. Integrate with SIEM tools like Splunk for real-time alerts.
What Undercode Say
- Key Takeaway 1: Automation tools like SQLmap and Nmap are double-edged swords—essential for testers but dangerous in malicious hands.
- Key Takeaway 2: Cloud misconfigurations (e.g., public S3 buckets) remain a top attack vector; enforce least-privilege policies.
Analysis:
The rise of AI-driven attacks will demand adaptive defenses, such as behavior-based anomaly detection. Certifications (e.g., CPTS, OSCP) validate skills but hands-on practice (HTB, CTFs) is irreplaceable. Future threats will target API endpoints and cloud-native apps, requiring deeper DevSecOps integration.
Prediction:
By 2025, AI-powered penetration testing tools will automate 60% of vulnerability assessments, but human expertise will still be critical for interpreting results and mitigating zero-days.
IT/Security Reporter URL:
Reported By: Jose Francisco – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
