Quick Guide to Ethical Hacking

Aug 20, 2024

Becoming a Professional Hacker in 8 Minutes

Introduction

  • Goal: Transition from beginner to pro hacker quickly
  • Focus on ethical hacking tools and techniques
  • Disclaimer: Does not encourage black hat hacking, which is illegal

Hacking Process Overview

  1. Reconnaissance
  2. Scanning
  3. Gaining Access
  4. Maintaining Access
  5. Covering Tracks
  6. Actions on Objectives

Phase 1: Reconnaissance

  • Definition: Gathering information about the target system.
  • Goal: Identify vulnerabilities without direct interaction.
  • Tools Used:
    • Nmap:
      • Free and open-source network discovery tool
      • Identifies devices, open ports, and services
      • Can scan large networks or single hosts
    • Shodan:
      • Search engine for internet-connected devices
      • Identifies vulnerable systems
    • Google Dorks:
      • Technique using Google search operators to uncover security vulnerabilities
      • Finds exposed documents, misconfigured databases, etc.

Phase 2: Scanning

  • Definition: Actively engaging with the system to confirm information gathered.
  • Goal: Identify live hosts and services running.
  • Tools Used:
    • Nmap:
      • Offers advanced scanning techniques like zombie scan and version detection
    • Wireshark:
      • Captures and analyzes network packets
      • Can decrypt TLS traffic if the server's private key is available
    • Nessus:
      • Widely used vulnerability scanner
      • Offers configuration audits and scheduled scanning features

Phase 3: Gaining Access

  • Definition: Exploiting vulnerabilities discovered to enter the system.
  • Techniques Used:
    • Buffer overflows, SQL injection, cross-site scripting
  • Tools Used:
    • Metasploit:
      • Comprehensive framework for exploiting vulnerabilities
      • Includes meterpreter payloads for post-exploitation tasks
    • SQLMap:
      • Automates detection and exploitation of SQL injection flaws
    • John the Ripper:
      • Renowned password cracking tool with custom rules and parallel processing capabilities

Phase 4: Maintaining Access

  • Definition: Ensuring consistent access to the compromised system.
  • Goal: Create backdoors and Trojans for re-entry.
  • Tools Used:
    • Cobalt Strike:
      • Mimics real cyber attacks and provides command and control capabilities
      • Features include beaconing capabilities and social engineering packages
    • Mimikatz:
      • Extracts credentials from Windows systems
      • Supports pass the hash and golden ticket attacks

Phase 5: Covering Tracks

  • Definition: Hiding evidence of hacking activities.
  • Goal: Alter or delete logs showing unauthorized activity.
  • Tools Used:
    • Sysinternals Suite:
      • Collection of utilities for managing and troubleshooting Windows systems
      • Tools include SDelete, Process Explorer, and Autoruns

Phase 6: Actions on Objectives

  • Definition: Pursuing primary goals post-access.
  • Possible Objectives:
    • Data exfiltration
    • Espionage
    • Launching malware

Conclusion

  • Combination of technical skills, critical thinking, and specialized tools is crucial.
  • Gain proficiency in each phase for effective ethical hacking.
  • Encourage responsible use of these skills for security enhancement.