Bug bounty hunting can seem overwhelming for beginners, but having the right tools can make a huge difference. This article breaks down the essential tools every bug bounty hunter should have in their arsenal to start discovering and reporting vulnerabilities effectively.
Reconnaissance Tools
The first step in bug bounty hunting is gathering as much information as possible about your target. Reconnaissance tools are critical for this phase.
Nmap
- What it does: Nmap (Network Mapper) is a free and open-source tool used for network discovery and security auditing.
- Why use it: It helps identify open ports, services running on them, and the operating systems in use.
- How to get started: Install it from Nmap's official site and start scanning with simple commands like
nmap -sV [target].
Amass
- What it does: A powerful tool for subdomain enumeration and asset discovery.
- Why use it: It helps uncover hidden subdomains of your target, which may expose vulnerabilities.
- How to use it: Run commands like
amass enum -d [target-domain].
Shodan
- What it does: A search engine for internet-connected devices.
- Why use it: It can reveal exposed devices, services, and potential misconfigurations.
- How to use it: Access it online at shodan.io or use the CLI tool.
Vulnerability Scanning Tools
Once you've mapped out the target, use vulnerability scanners to find potential weak spots.
Burp Suite
- What it does: A leading web application security testing tool.
- Why use it: Its features like proxy, repeater, and intruder make finding and exploiting bugs more efficient.
- How to start: Download the community edition for free at PortSwigger.
OWASP ZAP (Zed Attack Proxy)
- What it does: A free and open-source tool for web application security testing.
- Why use it: It's beginner-friendly and offers automated vulnerability scanning.
- How to use it: Download from OWASP ZAP's website and start scanning your target.
Scripting and Automation Tools
To save time and scale your efforts, scripting and automation tools are essential.
Python
- Why use it: Python is versatile for creating custom scripts for scanning and automating repetitive tasks.
- Where to learn: Platforms like Codecademy and freeCodeCamp offer Python courses tailored for cybersecurity.
Bash Scripts
- Why use it: Automate tasks like directory brute-forcing, log analysis, and more.
- How to get started: Write simple scripts like
#!/bin/bashfollowed by your commands in.shfiles.
Exploitation Tools
After finding a potential vulnerability, these tools help you test it safely and ethically.
Metasploit Framework
- What it does: A powerful exploitation framework.
- Why use it: To verify vulnerabilities and simulate exploits in a controlled environment.
- How to use it: Install from Metasploit's site and use commands like
use exploit/[path].
SQLmap
- What it does: Automates SQL Injection testing.
- Why use it: Finds and exploits SQL vulnerabilities quickly.
- How to use it: Run
sqlmap -u [target URL].
Reporting Tools
Once you’ve confirmed a vulnerability, clear and professional reporting is key.
Markdown Editors
- Examples: Typora, Obsidian
- Why use it: Simplifies writing detailed and well-formatted reports.
Screenshot Tools
- Examples: ShareX, Snagit
- Why use it: Document evidence of vulnerabilities with high-quality screenshots.
Practice and Learning Platforms
Before diving into live bug bounty programs, hone your skills on practice platforms.
Hack The Box
- What it does: Offers hands-on labs for penetration testing.
- Why use it: Develops real-world hacking skills.
TryHackMe
- What it does: Provides guided tutorials for beginners.
- Why use it: Offers beginner-friendly rooms to learn specific vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
Starting your bug bounty journey can be challenging, but having the right tools sets you up for success. These tools cover every stage, from reconnaissance to reporting, helping you find vulnerabilities efficiently and ethically.