Cybersecurity is vast and exciting, and bug bounty hunting is one of its most rewarding paths. Imagine being paid to find security flaws in websites and apps—yes, that’s what bug bounty hunters do! If you’re curious about how to get started in this field, this guide is just for you.
Prefer watching instead of reading? Here’s a quick video guide
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What is Bug Bounty Hunting?
Bug bounty hunting is the activity of discovering and reporting security flaws in software, websites, or mobile applications for rewards, or "bounties". Businesses operate bug bounty programs on platforms such as HackerOne, Bugcrowd, or Synack, inviting ethical hackers to test their systems.
If you discover a vulnerability that qualifies, you can earn money, fame, or even job offers!
Who Can Become a Bug Bounty Hunter?
You don't require a computer science degree or a professional hacker background to dive in. Anybody with curiosity, patience, and the willingness to learn can be a bug bounty hunter. A lot of successful hunters are self-taught.
You'll just need:
- Basic knowledge of web technologies (HTML, JavaScript, HTTP, etc.)
- A strong learning attitude
- Time and commitment
Why Do Companies Offer Bug Bounties?
Despite having good security teams, no software is ever 100% secure. Bug Bounty Programs:
- Identify hidden vulnerabilities before attackers do
- Promote ethical hacking
- Enhance product security
- Save millions in breach costs
Most Common Types of Bugs You Can Discover
Following are some of the most prevalent vulnerabilities bug bounty hunters hunt for:
Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
This occurs when an attacker injects malicious scripts into a website. If they succeed, they can steal cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information.
SQL Injection
This exploit enables an attacker to disrupt database queries, and this might cause unauthorized access or data leakage.
Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
This scam manipulates users to do something they didn't intend to do, like alter account settings.
IDOR (Insecure Direct Object Reference)
When an application allows you to view or edit information (such as someone else's profile or invoice) by just altering an ID within the URL.
Authentication/Authorization Issues
Identifying vulnerabilities to enable users to log in under another user's account or access admin-level functionality.
Tools Every Newbie Should Master
You don't require a professional setup to get started. The following basic tools will suffice:
- Burp Suite: Most widely used tool for manipulating and intercepting HTTP requests.
- Browser Developer Tools: Your browser's in-built developer tools (Inspect Element, Network tab) prove very useful.
- OWASP ZAP: A free, open-source equivalent of Burp Suite.
- Nmap: For scanning the network and discovery.
- Google Dorking: Utilizing advanced Google search techniques to discover exposed information or vulnerable endpoints.
Learning Resources for Beginners
Begin with the fundamentals and work your way up. Here are some suggested resources:
Free Learning Platforms:
- PortSwigger Web Security Academy (https://portswigger.net/web-security)
- Hack The Box (HTB) Starting Point (https://www.hackthebox.com/)
- TryHackMe – Web Fundamentals Path (https://tryhackme.com)
- OWASP Top 10 (https://owasp.org)
YouTube Channels:
- LiveOverflow
- NahamSec
- STĂ–K
- HackerOne's official channel
Books:
- Web Application Hacker's Handbook by Dafydd Stuttard
- Bug Bounty Bootcamp by Vickie Li
Where to Look for Bug Bounty Programs
When you feel at ease with web hacking fundamentals, you can begin hunting on sites such as:
- HackerOne
- Bugcrowd
- Synack
- YesWeHack
- Intigriti
These sites include lists of public and private programs. Begin with public programs—they are open to all.
Getting Started Tips
Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with Web Security
Learn about how websites function and learn OWASP's Top 10 vulnerabilities.
Step 2: Practice Labbing
Practice exploiting vulnerabilities on platforms such as PortSwigger Academy and TryHackMe in a safe manner.
Step 3: Select a Bug Bounty Platform
Make an account and sign up for some public programs. Carefully read each program's rules and scope.
Step 4: Begin Hunting
Select a target, browse the site manually, and search for anything out of the ordinary—such as URLs with user IDs, hidden parameters, or API endpoints.
Step 5: Document Everything
Record everything you test and find, even if it doesn't result in a bug.
Step 6: Report Ethically
If you spot a bug, prepare a good report. Write down:
- What it is vulnerable to
- How to reproduce it
- Effected by (what the attacker can do)
- Screenshots or proof of concept (PoC)
Step 7: Stay Updated
Subscribe to bug bounty hunters' Twitter feeds and read write-ups. You'll pick up tricks and techniques periodically.
How Much Can You Earn?
Bounties may vary from $50 to $50,000+, depending on the severity of the bug and the company. Although some individuals turn bug hunting into a full-time profession, others begin as part-time hunters or hobbyists.
Even if you don't encounter high-paying bugs immediately, you'll have real-world experience in cybersecurity.
Challenges You May Encounter
Let's face it—bug bounty hunting isn't a cakewalk. It can be frustrating initially.
- You may spend hours and find nothing.
- Others might find a bug before you.
- Some of your reports have been rejected.
But don't give up. Every failure is something new that you learn. Keep trying, and your abilities will improve quickly.
The Ethics of Bug Bounty Hunting
Always adhere to these golden rules:
- Obey the program rules.
- Don't try systems beyond the approved scope.
- Never use a bug more than necessary to demonstrate that it exists.
- Don't reveal bugs in public without permission.
Bug bounty hunting is all about securing the internet. Be ethical and responsible.
Final Thoughts
Bug bounty hunting is a combination of creativity, logic, and persistence. As a beginner, your objective shouldn't be to earn money immediately but to learn, develop, and acquire real-world hacking skills. Begin with small things, continue practicing, and never hesitate to ask questions or get assistance from the community.
Remember, every expert hacker was once a beginner—just like you.
Bonus Tip: Join Online Communities
- Reddit’s r/bugbounty
- Discord servers of HackerOne or Bugcrowd
- Twitter (follow tags like #bugbountytips, #infosec, #websecurity)
You’ll learn faster and stay motivated.
Happy Hunting!