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Introduction
Ethical hacking and bug bounty programs are critical components of modern cybersecurity, helping organizations identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors exploit them. Professionals like Miguel Llamazares, recognized by the UK government for their contributions, demonstrate the importance of offensive security skills. This article explores essential techniques, tools, and commands used in penetration testing and bug hunting.
Learning Objectives
- Understand key cybersecurity commands for Linux and Windows.
- Learn how to perform advanced reconnaissance using search engine dorking.
- Explore practical mitigation strategies for common vulnerabilities.
You Should Know
1. DuckDuckGo Dorking for Reconnaissance
Command/Query:
site:gov.uk filetype:pdf "confidential"
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Open DuckDuckGo.
- Enter the query to search for confidential PDFs on UK government websites.
3. Review results for exposed sensitive documents.
Why It Matters:
Search engine dorking helps uncover publicly accessible but unintended data leaks, a common entry point for attackers.
2. Nmap for Network Scanning
Command:
nmap -sV -A -T4 target.com
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Install Nmap (
sudo apt install nmapon Linux). - Run the command to scan `target.com` for open ports and services.
3. Analyze results to identify potential vulnerabilities.
Why It Matters:
Nmap is a foundational tool for network reconnaissance, revealing misconfigurations or outdated services.
3. Metasploit for Exploitation
Command:
msfconsole use exploit/windows/smb/ms17_010_eternalblue set RHOSTS 192.168.1.1 exploit
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Launch Metasploit (`msfconsole`).
2. Select the EternalBlue exploit (CVE-2017-0144).
- Set the target IP and execute the exploit.
Why It Matters:
Understanding exploitation frameworks like Metasploit is crucial for testing patch management and system resilience.
4. Windows Privilege Escalation
Command (PowerShell):
Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_UserAccount
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Open PowerShell as an administrator.
- Run the command to list user accounts and privileges.
3. Identify misconfigured accounts for escalation paths.
Why It Matters:
Privilege escalation is a common post-exploitation technique to gain higher-level access.
5. Cloud Hardening with AWS CLI
Command:
aws iam update-account-password-policy --minimum-password-length 12
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Install AWS CLI and configure credentials.
2. Enforce a 12-character minimum password policy.
3. Verify changes in the AWS IAM console.
Why It Matters:
Cloud environments require strict access controls to prevent unauthorized access.
6. API Security Testing with OWASP ZAP
Command:
docker run -t owasp/zap2docker zap-api-scan.py -t https://api.target.com -f openapi
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Install Docker and pull the OWASP ZAP image.
2. Run the scan against an OpenAPI-defined endpoint.
- Review the report for vulnerabilities like SQLi or XSS.
Why It Matters:
APIs are a prime target for attackers; automated tools help identify flaws early.
7. Linux Firewall Hardening
Command:
sudo ufw enable && sudo ufw default deny incoming
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Enable Uncomplicated Firewall (UFW).
- Set the default policy to block incoming traffic.
- Allow specific ports (
sudo ufw allow 22/tcpfor SSH).
Why It Matters:
Firewalls are the first line of defense against unauthorized network access.
What Undercode Say
- Key Takeaway 1: Proactive reconnaissance (e.g., dorking) is as vital as technical exploits in uncovering vulnerabilities.
- Key Takeaway 2: Automation tools like Metasploit and OWASP ZAP streamline testing but require ethical judgment.
Analysis:
The rise of bug bounty programs highlights the shift toward collaborative security. Professionals must balance offensive techniques with responsible disclosure. As AI-driven attacks emerge, mastering these skills will be indispensable for defending critical infrastructure.
Prediction
By 2025, AI-powered penetration testing tools will dominate the cybersecurity landscape, but human expertise will remain essential for interpreting results and mitigating complex threats. Ethical hacking certifications (e.g., OSWE, PNPT) will become industry standards for offensive security roles.
This article integrates verified commands, real-world examples, and expert insights to equip readers with actionable cybersecurity knowledge. For further training, explore platforms like Offensive Security or Hack The Box.
IT/Security Reporter URL:
Reported By: Mllamazares Hacking – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass β
