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Methodology Overview

This section outlines the systematic approach to security testing and bug bounty hunting used in the Bastet security framework.

🎯 Core Principles

Our methodology is built on four core principles:

  1. Systematic Approach: Follow a structured process to ensure comprehensive coverage
  2. Documentation: Record all findings and methodologies for repeatability
  3. Ethical Testing: Always operate within legal and ethical boundaries
  4. Continuous Learning: Adapt and improve based on new discoveries

📊 Testing Phases

1. Reconnaissance Phase

  • Passive Information Gathering: OSINT, public records, social media
  • Active Reconnaissance: Subdomain enumeration, port scanning, service detection
  • Attack Surface Mapping: Identify entry points and potential targets

2. Vulnerability Assessment

  • Automated Scanning: Use tools to identify common vulnerabilities
  • Manual Testing: Deep-dive analysis of complex business logic
  • Code Review: Static and dynamic analysis when source code is available

3. Exploitation

  • Proof of Concept: Develop working exploits for identified vulnerabilities
  • Impact Assessment: Determine the real-world impact of successful exploits
  • Chain Building: Combine multiple vulnerabilities for maximum impact

4. Post-Exploitation

  • Privilege Escalation: Attempt to gain higher-level access
  • Lateral Movement: Explore additional systems and services
  • Data Exfiltration: Demonstrate the potential for data theft (ethically)

🔄 Iterative Process

Security testing is an iterative process. As new information is discovered, previous phases may need to be revisited:

graph LR
    A[Recon] --> B[Assessment]
    B --> C[Exploitation]
    C --> D[Post-Exploitation]
    D --> A
    D --> E[Reporting]

📝 Documentation Standards

Throughout all phases, maintain detailed documentation:

  • Methodology Used: Record the specific techniques and tools employed
  • Findings: Document all vulnerabilities, even those not exploitable
  • Screenshots: Capture evidence of successful exploitation
  • Reproduction Steps: Provide clear instructions for verifying findings

🎭 Scope Management

Always clearly define and respect the testing scope:

  • In-Scope Assets: Systems explicitly approved for testing
  • Out-of-Scope Assets: Systems that must not be tested
  • Testing Methods: Approved and prohibited testing techniques
  • Timing Constraints: When testing can and cannot be performed

🛡️ Risk Assessment

Evaluate risks throughout the testing process:

  • Technical Risk: Potential for system disruption or damage
  • Legal Risk: Compliance with terms of engagement
  • Reputational Risk: Impact on organization's reputation
  • Data Risk: Potential exposure of sensitive information

Next Steps

This methodology is continuously updated based on the latest security research and industry best practices.