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Introduction
Bug bounty hunting and penetration testing require a deep understanding of cybersecurity tools, commands, and methodologies. This article covers essential Linux/Windows commands, vulnerability exploitation techniques, and hardening practices for aspiring security professionals.
Learning Objectives
- Master key Linux and Windows commands for security assessments.
- Learn how to identify and exploit common vulnerabilities.
- Understand best practices for securing cloud and API environments.
You Should Know
1. Network Scanning with Nmap
Command:
nmap -sV -A -T4 target.com
Step-by-Step Guide:
-sV: Detects service versions.-A: Enables aggressive scanning (OS detection, script scanning).-T4: Increases speed (adjust based on network sensitivity).
Use this to map open ports, services, and potential vulnerabilities.
2. Directory Bruteforcing with Gobuster
Command:
gobuster dir -u http://target.com -w /usr/share/wordlists/dirb/common.txt
Step-by-Step Guide:
dir: Specifies directory brute-forcing mode.-u: Target URL.-w: Wordlist path.
Helps discover hidden directories and files on web servers.
3. Exploiting SQL Injection with SQLmap
Command:
sqlmap -u "http://target.com/page?id=1" --dbs
Step-by-Step Guide:
-u: Vulnerable URL parameter.--dbs: Lists available databases.
Automates SQL injection detection and exploitation.
4. Windows Privilege Escalation with PowerUp
Command (PowerShell):
Invoke-AllChecks
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Part of the PowerSploit toolkit.
- Identifies misconfigurations (unquoted service paths, weak permissions).
Run in an elevated PowerShell session to find escalation paths.
5. Cloud Security: AWS S3 Bucket Checks
Command:
aws s3 ls s3://bucket-name --no-sign-request
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Lists files in an S3 bucket without authentication.
- Use `–no-sign-request` to test for public access misconfigurations.
6. API Security Testing with Postman
Example Request:
GET /api/user?id=1 HTTP/1.1 Host: target.com Authorization: Bearer <token>
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Test for broken authentication, IDOR, and excessive data exposure.
- Use tools like Burp Suite to intercept and manipulate requests.
7. Linux Hardening: Disabling Unused Services
Command:
sudo systemctl disable <service-name>
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Reduces attack surface by stopping unnecessary services.
- Verify with
systemctl list-units --type=service.
What Undercode Say
- Key Takeaway 1: Automation tools (Nmap, SQLmap) save time but require ethical use.
- Key Takeaway 2: Cloud misconfigurations (e.g., open S3 buckets) are low-hanging fruit for attackers.
Analysis:
Bug bounty hunters must balance offensive techniques with defensive awareness. Platforms like TryHackMe and HackerOne provide structured learning, but real-world scenarios demand adaptability. Future threats will likely focus on API abuses and AI-driven attacks, making continuous learning essential.
Prediction:
As AI-integrated security tools evolve, attackers will leverage machine learning to bypass traditional defenses. Proactive hunting and zero-trust architectures will become standard.
(Note: Replace placeholder commands with verified examples from your testing environment.)
IT/Security Reporter URL:
Reported By: Zombiehack Apple – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass β
