Very Basic Beginner Bug Bounty Methodology: Practical Tips and Techniques for Web Apps

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Beginner Bug Bounty Methodology: Practical Tips and Techniques for Web Apps

Starting your journey as a bug bounty hunter can be overwhelming, especially when facing the complexities of modern web applications. This article provides a practical and technical beginner-friendly methodology to help you navigate the process effectively. We’ll focus on how to find parameters vulnerable to specific types of bugs, classify them by test type, and execute tests systematically. By following this guide, you’ll learn how to identify and exploit common vulnerabilities in web applications.

Step 1: Reconnaissance — Gather the Basics

Reconnaissance is the foundation of any bug bounty methodology. Use the following steps and tools to map the target surface:

1.1. Subdomain Enumeration

Identify subdomains related to the target. Tools like amass, subfinder, and assetfinder can help.

• Command: subfinder -d target.com -o subdomains.txt
• Goal: Create a list of accessible subdomains.

1.2. URL Discovery

Extract historical URLs using waybackurls and gau.

• Command: waybackurls target.com | tee urls.txt
• Command: gau target.com >> urls.txt
• Goal: Identify endpoints to test.

1.3. Directory and File Enumeration

Use directory brute-forcing tools like ffuf, dirsearch, or gobuster to uncover hidden files and directories.

• Command: ffuf -u https://target/FUZZ -w wordlist.txt
• Goal: Find directories like /admin, /api, or sensitive files like robots.txt or backup.zip.

Step 2: Parameter Collection

Parameters are key to finding vulnerabilities. Gather all possible GET and POST parameters:

2.1. Burp Suite or ZAP