🔍 Information Gathering
Perform OSINT, Google Dorks, and fingerprint the web server.
Review metafiles (robots.txt, sitemap.xml, etc.) and inspect page source for sensitive info.
Map the site structure using tools like Burp Suite or Dirsearch.
⚙️ Configuration & Deployment Testing
Check for default credentials, misconfigurations, and sensitive file exposure.
Test HTTP methods, HSTS, and subdomain takeover risks.
Ensure proper file permissions and cloud storage security.
🔐 Authentication & Authorization Testing
Test for weak password policies, insecure authentication mechanisms, and IDOR vulnerabilities.
Look for privilege escalation opportunities and bypassable authorization schemas.
🧩 Session Management
Test for session fixation, hijacking, and CSRF vulnerabilities.
Ensure cookies are secure, HTTPOnly, and properly expired after logout.
📥 Input Validation
Hunt for XSS, SQLi, RCE, and other injection vulnerabilities.
Test for Local/Remote File Inclusion, SSRF, and Host Header Injection.
🛠️ Business Logic & Client-Side Testing
Test for logic flaws like parameter tampering and malicious file uploads.
Identify DOM-based XSS, CORS misconfigurations, and clickjacking risks.
⚡ Other Common Issues
Ensure rate-limiting is enabled to prevent brute-force attacks.
Test for weak 2FA/OTP implementations and broken link hijacking.
Practice-Verified Commands and Codes
1. Dirsearch for Directory Enumeration:
python3 dirsearch.py -u https://example.com -e php,html,js
2. Burp Suite for Proxy and Scanning:
Launch Burp Suite and configure your browser proxy to 127.0.0.1:8080.
3. Nmap for Server Fingerprinting:
nmap -sV -O https://example.com
4. SQLMap for SQL Injection Testing:
sqlmap -u https://example.com/page?id=1 --dbs
5. Nikto for Web Server Vulnerabilities:
nikto -h https://example.com
What Undercode Say
Web application penetration testing is a critical aspect of cybersecurity, ensuring that vulnerabilities are identified and mitigated before they can be exploited. The OWASP Top 10 provides a foundational framework for addressing the most common security risks. Tools like Burp Suite, Dirsearch, and Nmap are indispensable for information gathering and vulnerability assessment.
For Linux users, mastering commands like grep, awk, and `sed` can streamline log analysis and data extraction. Windows users can leverage PowerShell for scripting and automation, such as using `Invoke-WebRequest` for web scraping or `Test-NetConnection` for network diagnostics.
Injection vulnerabilities, such as SQLi and XSS, remain prevalent, and tools like SQLMap and OWASP ZAP are essential for identifying and exploiting these flaws. Additionally, understanding session management mechanisms and ensuring secure cookie configurations are vital for preventing session hijacking and CSRF attacks.
For further reading, refer to the OWASP Testing Guide and Burp Suite Documentation.
By combining automated tools with manual testing techniques, cybersecurity professionals can ensure comprehensive coverage of potential vulnerabilities. Regular practice, staying updated with the latest security trends, and continuous learning are key to mastering web application pentesting.
Remember, security is a continuous process, not a one-time task. Always validate your findings, document your results, and collaborate with development teams to implement effective remediation strategies.
For advanced techniques, explore resources like Hack The Box and TryHackMe to hone your skills in a controlled environment.
Stay vigilant, stay secure!
References:
Hackers Feeds, Undercode AI
