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Introduction
Muntadhar M., a 15-year-old security researcher, recently earned a $1,500 bug bounty through a successful collaboration with João G., showcasing the power of teamwork in cybersecurity. Their achievement highlights how even young researchers can make significant contributions to the field by leveraging collective expertise.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the importance of collaboration in bug bounty hunting.
- Learn key cybersecurity techniques used by ethical hackers.
- Discover how to start a career in cybersecurity at a young age.
You Should Know
1. Bug Bounty Hunting Basics
Bug bounty hunting involves identifying vulnerabilities in software and reporting them for rewards. Platforms like HackerOne and Bugcrowd facilitate these programs.
Command to Check for Open Ports (Linux):
nmap -sV target.com
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Install `nmap` using `sudo apt install nmap`.
- Run the command to scan for open ports and services.
3. Analyze results for potential vulnerabilities.
2. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Testing
XSS is a common web vulnerability where attackers inject malicious scripts.
Basic Payload to Test for XSS:
<script>alert('XSS')</script>
How to Use:
- Enter the payload in input fields or URLs.
- If an alert pops up, the site is vulnerable.
3. Report the finding responsibly.
3. SQL Injection Detection
SQL injection exploits database queries to access unauthorized data.
Simple SQL Injection Test:
' OR '1'='1
Steps:
- Input the payload in login or search fields.
- If the application behaves unexpectedly, it may be vulnerable.
3. Document and report the issue.
4. Using Burp Suite for Web Testing
Burp Suite is a tool for analyzing web vulnerabilities.
Intercepting Requests:
- Configure your browser to use Burp Suite as a proxy.
2. Enable interception in Burp Suite.
- Modify requests to test for flaws like IDOR or CSRF.
5. API Security Testing
APIs are often targeted due to misconfigurations.
Testing for Broken Object Level Authorization (BOLA):
curl -X GET https://api.target.com/users/123 -H "Authorization: Bearer token"
Guide:
- Change the user ID (
123) to another value. - If you access another user’s data, the API is vulnerable.
3. Report the issue with proof.
6. Linux Privilege Escalation
Gaining higher access on a system is critical for penetration testing.
Check for Sudo Privileges:
sudo -l
Steps:
- Run the command to list allowed sudo commands.
2. Exploit misconfigured binaries (e.g., `sudo vi`).
3. Escalate privileges responsibly.
7. Windows Command for Vulnerability Checks
Windows systems can also be tested for flaws.
List Vulnerable Services:
Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Service | Where-Object {$_.StartMode -eq "Auto"}
How to Use:
1. Run in PowerShell to identify auto-start services.
2. Research known exploits for outdated services.
3. Report findings ethically.
What Undercode Say
- Collaboration is Key: Teamwork accelerates vulnerability discovery.
- Age Doesn’t Define Skill: Young researchers can excel with dedication.
- Responsible Disclosure: Always follow ethical guidelines when reporting bugs.
Prediction
The rise of young cybersecurity researchers like Muntadhar signals a shift toward democratized security expertise. As more platforms encourage collaboration, we’ll see an increase in crowdsourced vulnerability hunting, making the digital world safer.
🎯Let’s Practice For Free:
IT/Security Reporter URL:
Reported By: Al Muntadhar – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
