Gaining Access
What is Gaining Access?
Gaining Access is the phase where the attacker exploits vulnerabilities identified during scanning to penetrate the target system. This is where the actual "hacking" occurs, using various techniques to bypass security controls and gain unauthorized access.
Common Attack Vectors
Exploiting Software Vulnerabilities
Using known vulnerabilities in software or operating systems to gain access.
Password Attacks
Brute force, dictionary attacks, or credential stuffing to gain access.
Social Engineering
Manipulating people into revealing sensitive information or performing actions.
Web Application Attacks
SQL injection, XSS, CSRF and other web-based attacks.
Common Techniques
- Exploit development and execution
- Password cracking
- Privilege escalation
- Man-in-the-middle attacks
- Session hijacking
- SQL injection
- Cross-site scripting (XSS)
Popular Tools
Metasploit Framework
Penetration testing platform for developing and executing exploits.
Hydra
Powerful password cracking tool supporting multiple protocols.
Burp Suite
Integrated platform for performing security testing of web applications.
SQLmap
Automated SQL injection and database takeover tool.
Ethical Considerations
This is the most critical phase where ethical boundaries must be strictly observed. Only exploit systems you have explicit permission to test. Document all findings and avoid causing unnecessary damage or disruption to systems.
