Bug Bounty Tip: Don’t Ignore the “Boring” Features

A while back, I was testing a website built with a modern framework. Nothing immediately screamed “this is vulnerable.” One of its features allowed users to ask questions via video chat. So, I posed as a potential client and had a nice conversation. The video chat itself seemed solid, with no obvious security issues.

Then, I received a post-call survey email with a link to complete it. The URL had an ID parameter, and the application didn’t seem to use the same framework as the main website. I changed the ID in the URL and accessed survey responses from other clients. The page source also contained hidden fields with additional sensitive client data.

Lesson: Test EVERYTHING—video calls, surveys, email notifications, etc.

Pro Tip: If an app asks for your email, use one you actively monitor. Your next bounty could be just one email away.

You Should Know:

Here are some practical commands and tools to help you test for vulnerabilities like the one described:

1. URL Parameter Manipulation:

• Use `curl` to test URL parameters:

  curl -I "https://example.com/survey?id=123"
  

• Check for IDOR (Insecure Direct Object Reference) vulnerabilities by altering the `id` parameter.

2. View Page Source:

• Right-click on a webpage and select “View Page Source” or use `Ctrl+U` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd+Option+U` (Mac) to inspect hidden fields or sensitive data.

3. Burp Suite:

• Use Burp Suite to intercept and manipulate HTTP requests.
• Install Burp Suite and configure your browser proxy to 127.0.0.1:8080.

4. Automated Scanning with Nikto:

• Scan for vulnerabilities in web applications:

  nikto -h https://example.com
  

5. Linux Command to Monitor Emails:

• Use `mail` or `mutt` to monitor emails on a Linux server:

  mail
  

6. Windows Command to Check Network Connections:

• Use `netstat` to monitor active connections:

  netstat -an
  

7. Python Script to Test IDOR:

• Automate IDOR testing with a simple Python script:

  import requests</li>
  </ul>
  
  for i in range(100, 110):
  url = f"https://example.com/survey?id={i}"
  response = requests.get(url)
  if response.status_code == 200:
  print(f"Accessible: {url}")
  

  What Undercode Say:

  Always approach bug bounty hunting with a mindset of curiosity and thoroughness. The “boring” features often hide the most critical vulnerabilities. Use tools like Burp Suite, Nikto, and custom scripts to automate your testing process. Remember, even the smallest detail, like a survey link, can lead to a significant discovery. Keep learning, keep testing, and always stay ethical in your approach.

  For further reading on bug bounty techniques, check out:
  – Bug Bounty Hunting Essentials
  – OWASP Testing Guide

  Happy hunting! 🐞

  References:

  Reported By: Martinmarting Bug – Hackers Feeds
  Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
  Basic Verification: Pass ✅

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