5 Tips for the Beginners Who Want to Start Bug Bounty

2 min readDec 10, 2023

1. Start small and focus on learning

Don’t jump into complex programs immediately. Start with smaller programs or platforms with clearly defined scopes and good documentation. This will allow you to learn the ropes, understand the bug bounty process, and build your confidence without getting overwhelmed.

2. Choose your targets wisely

Not all programs are created equal. Some programs have very active communities and are more likely to reward beginners, while others are highly competitive and may require more advanced skills. Research different programs, read their rules and scope, and choose ones that are beginner-friendly and align with your interests and skill set.

3. Learn the basics of web application security

Familiarize yourself with common web vulnerabilities like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and insecure direct object references (IDOR). Resources like Web Security Academy, PortSwigger Web Security Academy, and OWASP Top 10 can help you understand these vulnerabilities and how to exploit them.

4. Focus on reconnaissance and methodology

Thorough reconnaissance is crucial for identifying potential vulnerabilities. Learn how to gather information about the target program, including its technologies, subdomains, and APIs. Develop a structured methodology for your bug bounty hunts, including scanning, manual testing, and exploitation techniques.

5. Practice and participate in bug bounty communities:

The best way to learn is by doing. Participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions and bug bounty programs to put your skills to the test. Actively engage with bug bounty communities, forums, and social media groups to learn from other hunters, share your findings, and stay updated on the latest trends and techniques.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

Books:

The Web Application Hacker’s Handbook by Dafydd Stuttard and Marcus Pinto
Web Security for Penetration Testers by Georgia Weidman

YouTube Channels:

PortSwigger Web Security Academy
ippsec
LiveOverflow

Websites:

Bug Bounty Hunter
HackerOne
Bugcrowd

Remember, bug bounty hunting is a journey, not a destination. Be patient, and persistent, and always keep learning. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve success in this exciting and rewarding field.

#HappyHacking