How to start Bug Hunting

How to start Bug Hunting

Bug hunting and writing write-ups are valuable skills for security researchers and bug bounty hunters. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Bug Hunting:

1. Choose a target: Select a company or program with a bug bounty program or a open-source project.

2. Research and reconnaissance: Gather information about the target, its technology stack, and potential vulnerabilities.

3. Testing and exploration: Use various tools and techniques to identify vulnerabilities, such as:

- Manual testing

- Automated scanning tools (e.g., Burp Suite, ZAP)

- Fuzzing

- Code review

4. Identify and verify: Find and confirm vulnerabilities, taking detailed notes and screenshots.

Writing Write-ups:

1. Understand the vulnerability: Clearly explain the vulnerability, its impact, and affected components.

2. Reproduce the issue: Provide step-by-step instructions to reproduce the vulnerability.

3. Include screenshots and logs: Add visual aids and logs to support your findings.

4. Offer recommendations: Suggest fixes or mitigations for the vulnerability.

5. Write clearly and concisely: Use simple language, avoiding technical jargon when possible.

6. Proofread and edit: Review your write-up for clarity, grammar, and accuracy.

Write-up Structure:

1. Introduction: Briefly introduce the vulnerability and its impact.

2. Vulnerability Details: Explain the vulnerability, affected components, and technical details.

3. Reproduction Steps: Provide step-by-step instructions to reproduce the issue.

4. Screenshots and Logs: Include visual aids and logs to support your findings.

5. Recommendations: Offer suggested fixes or mitigations.

6. Conclusion: Summarize the vulnerability and its significance.

Tips and Resources:

- Start with simple vulnerabilities and gradually move to more complex ones.

- Practice writing clear and concise write-ups.

- Read and learn from others’ write-ups.

- Join bug bounty platforms (e.g., HackerOne, Bugcrowd) and participate in challenges.

- Familiarize yourself with common vulnerability types and classification systems (e.g., CWE, CVE).

Some recommended resources to get you started:

- HackerOne’s Bug Bounty Field Manual

- Bugcrowd’s Bug Hunter’s Handbook

- OWASP’s WebGoat and WebGoat Lessons

- CVE Details and CWE Dictionary

Remember, bug hunting and writing write-ups take time and practice to develop. Start with simple vulnerabilities, be patient, and continually improve your skills. Good luck!