A bug is only worth money if you can explain it. Your report is your product. A professional report includes:
SQL Injection (SQLi): Manipulating database queries through user input. While modern frameworks prevent much of this, legacy systems and complex search functions are still often vulnerable. Mastering the Tool of the Trade: Burp Suite
Bug hunting is a marathon, not a sprint. Success requires navigating "duplicates" (bugs reported by others first) and "N/As" (vulnerabilities the company chooses not to address). Persistence is key. Engaging with the security community, studying public disclosure reports on platforms like HackerOne, and staying updated on the latest security research are essential steps for growth. Consistent effort and continuous learning lead to the eventual success of a professional researcher. bug bounty masterclass tutorial
Subdomain Enumeration: Use tools like Subfinder, Amass, and Assetfinder to map out a company's external footprint.Port Scanning: Identify open services using Nmap or Naabu.Directory Brute Forcing: Use ffuf or Dirsearch to find hidden files, admin panels, and backup directories.Fingerprinting: Identify the tech stack (languages, frameworks, servers) using Wappalyzer or BuiltWith. The "Big Three" Vulnerabilities to Target
Burp Suite is the industry standard for web hacking. It acts as a proxy between your browser and the server, allowing you to intercept, modify, and replay requests. To become a master: A bug is only worth money if you can explain it
Repeater: Use this to manually tweak parameters and observe how the server responds.Intruder: Automate customized attacks, such as fuzzing for hidden parameters or brute-forcing logins.Comparer: Visually analyze the differences between two server responses to find subtle clues. Writing Reports That Get Paid
While there are hundreds of bug types, mastering these three will yield the most consistent results for beginners: While modern frameworks prevent much of this, legacy
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS): Injecting malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. Focus on "Stored XSS" for higher payouts, as it affects every user who visits a specific page.
It is imperative to never perform testing outside the "Scope" defined in a program's policy. The scope specifies exactly which domains and IP addresses are authorized for testing. Accessing data without authorization or disrupting services (such as through DoS attacks) can lead to severe legal consequences. Adhering to "Responsible Disclosure" ensures that companies have time to fix vulnerabilities before any public discussion occurs. The Path Forward
Before you can break systems, you must understand how they are built. A master hunter needs a firm grasp of several core areas: