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Advanced Penetration Testing: Navigating HTB Challenge ‘Three’
Join us in the latest installment of our “HTB – Hack The Box Series” as we delve into the intricate mechanics of the Tier 1 – Challenge 5, titled ‘Three’. This tutorial is a step-by-step guide through the challenge, designed for educational purposes within ethical hacking boundaries. For more challenges, visit: HTB – Hack the Box Series.
Initial Setup: Kali Linux Update
Commencing our penetration testing journey, let’s ensure our primary tool, Kali Linux, is updated with the latest security patches and tools:
$ sudo apt update $ sudo apt full-upgrade -y
Establishing VPN Connection to HTB
Securing a concealed route to HTB’s infrastructure, we establish a VPN tunnel, essential for anonymity and network integrity:
$ sudo openvpn Downloads/starting_point_UserName.ovpn
Network Reconnaissance: Nmap Scanning
Engaging in reconnaissance, we deploy Nmap to scan the target IP for open ports and services, crucial for identifying potential entry points:
$ sudo nmap -sV 10.129.248.17
[Nmap scan results here]
Strategic Approach to Challenge Tasks
Navigating through ‘Three’, we systematically address each task, starting with open TCP ports and progressing through domain discovery and DNS resolution tactics, using Linux’s /etc/hosts for hostname mapping:
$ echo "10.129.248.17 thetoppers.htb" | sudo tee -a /etc/hosts
Sub-Domain Enumeration
Next, we focus on uncovering hidden sub-domains using advanced tools like SecLists and gobuster, revealing potential vulnerabilities:
$ cd /home/kali/three/SecLists/Discovery/DNS/ $ gobuster vhost -w subdomains-top1million-5000.txt -u http://thetoppers.htb
Interacting with AWS Services
Identifying the sub-domain as an AWS S3 service, we utilize awscli for interaction, demonstrating command-line proficiency in accessing S3 buckets:
$ sudo apt install awscli $ aws configure $ aws --endpoint=http://s3.thetoppers.htb s3 ls
Final Stage: Exploiting PHP and Netcat
In the concluding phase, we exploit the server’s PHP configuration to execute a reverse shell. The use of netcat for establishing a listener elucidates a critical penetration testing technique:
[PHP and Netcat commands here]
Concluding with Ethical Hacking Guidelines
As we capture the flag in this challenge, it’s imperative to emphasize the ethical aspects of hacking. Our guides, including this tutorial, align with the legal and community standards of ethical hacking, focusing on enhancing cybersecurity knowledge and not for unauthorized activities.
By participating in these challenges and applying the knowledge gained, you contribute to the broader goal of advancing cybersecurity awareness and capabilities. We encourage you to continue exploring and learning within the realms of ethical and responsible cybersecurity practices.