“How to succeed in bug bounty” a framework.
Hey there reader, are you hoping to make millions with bug bounty? That’s quite the ambition you’ve got there, and while I’m not going to hand over my guarantee that you’ll be able to reach such a goal if you follow these six simple steps, you’re bound to attain success.
Getting started in bug bounty can seem overwhelming, but it is a rewarding and exciting field for those who are passionate about cybersecurity and finding vulnerabilities in web applications.
Now I’m going to be frank with you, a lot of the articles I’ve read either share incorrect information, biased viewpoints, or are absolutely dripping with click-bait referral links to generate income at your expense, slowly lining the author’s pockets.
There’s a reason I’ve been a silent reader for so long; I only want to add value to the community here and share some core fundamentals with those of you who might be eager to break into this field. I don’t care about your views or my earnings. I’m here to provide you with a core framework to reference and build upon in your own way to help you succeed.
For those who don’t know, a bug bounty is a program offered by many organizations and websites that pays individuals for finding security vulnerabilities in their systems. In this article, I will guide you on how to get started in bug bounty and become a successful bug hunter.
I’m writing this guide because I was frustrated at how challenging of a start I had when I first began bug bounty. There was a distinct lack of any beginner-friendly frameworks, so I’ll do my best here to give you exactly what I wish I had when I first started. Without further ado, and for the sake of your truly invaluable time, I’ll keep things brief and to the point, leaving the rest to your own research.
Step 1: Gain Knowledge Before you dive into the world of bug bounty, it is crucial to have a good understanding of web application security and the different types of vulnerabilities that exist. You should familiarize yourself with common web technologies such as HTML, JavaScript, and the basics of HTTP requests and responses. You can start by reading books and articles, taking online courses, and participating in online forums and communities where you can ask questions and interact with experienced bug hunters.
Step 2: Choose the Right Platform There are many bug bounty platforms out there, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in your success. Some platforms offer bounties for finding vulnerabilities in a wide range of systems and applications, while others focus on specific industries, such as finance or healthcare. Consider your interests and skills when selecting a platform, and research each platform’s terms and conditions, rewards, and community before making your decision.
Step 3: Pick a Target Once you have chosen a platform, it is time to start looking for targets to test. There are many websites and organizations that participate in bug bounty programs, and you should start with a few that you are familiar with or have an interest in. Look for websites that have a large user base and handle sensitive information, as these are often the most rewarding targets.
Step 4: Utilize Tools To make your bug-hunting process more efficient, you should use a variety of tools. You can start with tools like Burp Suite, which is a popular web application security testing tool, and OWASP ZAP, which is a free, open-source tool. These tools allow you to capture and analyze HTTP requests and responses, and they can help you identify vulnerabilities faster.
Step 5: Write a Report Once you have found a vulnerability, it is important to write a detailed report that clearly explains the issue, how it can be exploited, and how it can be fixed. A well-written report will increase your chances of receiving a reward and will also demonstrate your knowledge and professionalism.
Step 6: Stay Up-to-Date Bug bounty is a rapidly evolving field, and new vulnerabilities and techniques are discovered every day. It is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and to continuously learn and improve your skills.
I saved the best tip for last, and it’s this: If you’re even remotely interested in bug bounty, and you’re here right now, just go get started. I spent a lot of poorly utilized time reading one too many guides instead of just diving headfirst into bug bounty and actually starting, and because of that, I almost never started at all. If it’s a toss up between starting, and never starting at all, then no amount of research or study time is worth that compromise. So if I can give you one essential piece of advice, it’s just start.
In conclusion, getting started or succeeding in bug bounty can seem extremely daunting, but with the right knowledge, tools, and approach, you can become a successful bug hunter. Save this framework, dive headfirst into messing around with tools, and keep on learning because you’ll never stop learning along the way. As a last reminder, always be ethical and respectful in your testing, and never attempt to exploit a vulnerability for malicious purposes. Happy hunting!
