Bug Hunting Methodology for Beginners A Step-by-Step Guide

Bug hunting, also known as vulnerability assessment or penetration testing, is an exhilarating journey into the depths of cybersecurity. For beginners entering this realm, navigating the complexities of bug hunting can be daunting. However, with the right methodology and approach, even newcomers can uncover significant vulnerabilities and contribute meaningfully to the security community. In this article, we’ll unveil a comprehensive bug hunting methodology tailored for beginners, providing step-by-step guidance to kickstart your journey into the world of cybersecurity.

Understanding Bug Hunting Methodology

Bug hunting methodology is a structured approach to systematically identify, analyze, and exploit vulnerabilities in software, websites, and applications. While methodologies may vary based on individual preferences and target platforms, a typical bug hunting methodology for beginners can be divided into several key phases:

ReconnaissanceUnderstand the target → Begin by familiarizing yourself with the target platform, its functionality, and its potential attack surface.Gather information → Use tools like WHOIS lookup, DNS enumeration, and Google dorking to gather relevant information about the target, including domain names, IP addresses, and subdomains.

2. Enumeration

Identify entry points → Scan the target for open ports, services, and web applications using tools like Nmap or Burp Suite.Enumerate web assets → Identify directories, files, and endpoints within web applications using tools like DirBuster or gobuster.

3. Vulnerability Analysis

Identify common vulnerabilities → Use automated scanners like Nikto or OWASP ZAP to detect common vulnerabilities such as XSS, SQL Injection, and CSRF.Manual inspection → Conduct manual inspection of web applications to identify vulnerabilities that automated scanners may miss, such as logic flaws or business logic vulnerabilities.

4. Exploitation

Exploit discovered vulnerabilities → Develop proof-of-concept (PoC) exploits to demonstrate the impact of discovered…