How to find bug and earn reward in cybersecurity

Photo by Siora Photography on Unsplash

Finding bugs and earning rewards in cybersecurity typically involves participating in bug bounty programs or vulnerability disclosure programs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started:

1. Familiarize yourself with bug bounty programs: Bug bounty programs are initiatives offered by organizations and companies that reward individuals for discovering and reporting security vulnerabilities in their systems. Research and identify reputable bug bounty platforms and programs that align with your interests and skills. Some popular platforms include HackerOne, Bugcrowd, and Synack.
2. Understand the rules and guidelines: Each bug bounty program has its own set of rules and guidelines that you must follow. Read and understand the program’s terms, scope, and eligibility criteria. Pay close attention to what types of vulnerabilities are in scope and what testing methods are allowed.
3. Enhance your skills and knowledge: Invest time in learning about various aspects of cybersecurity, including web application security, network security, mobile application security, and cryptography. Stay up to date with the latest vulnerabilities and attack techniques. This knowledge will help you identify potential vulnerabilities more effectively.
4. Choose your targets: Once you’ve selected a bug bounty platform, browse through the available programs and select targets that match your expertise and interest. Start with programs that have a wider scope and allow you to test a variety of systems.
5. Conduct responsible and ethical testing: Before you start testing, always ensure that you have proper authorization and permission from the program owners. Stick to the program’s rules and guidelines, focusing your efforts only on the specified targets. Avoid any malicious activities or data breaches during your testing.
6. Employ effective testing techniques: Utilize both manual and automated testing techniques to discover vulnerabilities. Techniques such as penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, code review, and security assessment can be employed depending on the nature of the target system.
7. Document and report vulnerabilities: When you find a security vulnerability, document the details including the steps to reproduce it, potential impact, and any supporting evidence. Take screenshots or record videos if necessary. Report the vulnerability to the bug bounty program according to their specified process, providing clear and concise information.
8. Engage with the program owners: Maintain good communication with the program owners throughout the process. Respond promptly to any inquiries or requests for further information. Be prepared to work closely with them to verify and address the reported vulnerabilities.
9. Respect disclosure timelines: Bug bounty programs often have disclosure timelines that define when and how you can disclose the vulnerability publicly. Respect these timelines and adhere to responsible disclosure practices. Avoid sharing any sensitive information publicly without proper authorization.
10. Earn your rewards: If your vulnerability report is accepted and verified by the program owners, you’ll be eligible for a reward. The amount of the reward varies depending on the severity and impact of the vulnerability. Some bug bounty programs offer monetary rewards, while others provide recognition, swag, or even job opportunities.

Remember, ethical hacking and bug hunting should always be conducted within legal boundaries and with explicit permission from the system owners. It’s essential to prioritize responsible disclosure and maintain a professional and ethical approach throughout the process.