Packt

Recon Techniques for Ethical Hacking & Bug Bounties (2026)

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Packt

Recon Techniques for Ethical Hacking & Bug Bounties (2026)

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Master web server operations and apply them to bug bounty hunting

  • Explore effective techniques for subdomain enumeration and certificate transparency

  • Conduct fuzzing using tools like Burp Suite, Wfuzz, and FFUF

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Recently updated!

August 2026

Assessments

17 assignments

Taught in English

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There are 17 modules in this course

This module provides an overview of reconnaissance in ethical hacking and bug bounty programs, covering its importance, legal considerations, and future trends. Learners will gain foundational knowledge on how to approach security assessments effectively.

What's included

4 videos

This module explores the critical role of note-taking in ethical hacking and bug bounty work. It covers techniques for organizing findings, using visual documentation, and applying best practices for effective documentation during penetration testing and security assessments.

What's included

4 videos1 assignment

This module introduces foundational concepts in web technology and reconnaissance methods used in bug bounty programs. Learners will explore the basics of web servers, DNS, URLs, and resource identification, while also gaining insight into ethical practices and mental discipline required for effective bug hunting.

What's included

7 videos1 assignment

This module provides learners with hands-on skills in using Shodan for reconnaissance, vulnerability scanning, and ethical hacking. It covers installation, API usage, data analysis, and report generation, while also demonstrating how to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in real-time.

What's included

22 videos1 assignment

This module provides learners with practical skills in using Certificate Transparency tools like Crt.sh, Shodan, and Censys for subdomain enumeration. It covers techniques to uncover hidden infrastructure, automate data collection, and apply these methods in real-world scenarios such as bug bounty hunting and penetration testing.

What's included

9 videos1 assignment

This module covers essential tools and techniques for expanding the scope of bug bounty reconnaissance. Learners will gain hands-on experience with penetration testing tools, subdomain enumeration methods, and data extraction strategies. The module emphasizes practical applications and efficient information gathering for vulnerability assessment.

What's included

9 videos1 assignment

This module explores the use of the Wayback Machine for retrieving historical web data, focusing on techniques for uncovering vulnerabilities, automating reconnaissance, and integrating with security tools like Burp Suite. Learners will gain practical skills in leveraging web archives for bug bounty research and security testing.

What's included

11 videos1 assignment

This module equips learners with essential techniques for conducting DNS enumeration, including using specialized tools and analyzing DNS records to enhance bug bounty reconnaissance skills.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

This module provides hands-on training on using various tools to identify web technologies, detect outdated components, and uncover vulnerabilities in web applications. Learners will gain practical knowledge on reconnaissance techniques for security assessments and bug bounty programs.

What's included

6 videos1 assignment

This module covers the fundamentals of fuzzing, including its role in vulnerability discovery, practical steps for implementation, and the use of tools like Burp Suite, Wfuzz, and FFUF. Learners will gain hands-on experience with fuzzing techniques for web applications, focusing on identifying weak points in authentication and directory structures.

What's included

19 videos1 assignment

This module explores tools and techniques for discovering hidden content on web servers, focusing on practical methods for identifying sensitive files and understanding server responses through HTTP status codes.

What's included

1 video1 assignment

This module teaches how to use screenshots effectively for visual reconnaissance, focusing on capturing and analyzing web assets to identify potential vulnerabilities. Learners will gain practical skills in identifying security risks through visual data and efficiently reviewing subdomain content.

What's included

1 video1 assignment

This module covers techniques for identifying sensitive information in GitHub repositories, including both automated and manual reconnaissance methods. Learners will gain an understanding of how to detect and prevent the exposure of credentials, tokens, and configuration files. The content emphasizes practical skills for securing code and infrastructure on public platforms.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

This module teaches learners how to detect and identify Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) using tools like Nmap and WafW00f. It covers techniques for fingerprinting WAFs, comparing detection methods, and understanding the protective mechanisms they provide. Learners will gain practical skills in analyzing and evaluating WAF identification strategies.

What's included

3 videos1 assignment

This module covers the fundamentals of Google Dorking, including how to perform advanced searches manually, create custom queries, and contribute to the Google Hacking Database. Learners will gain practical skills in identifying vulnerable systems and sensitive data through search operators and techniques.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

This module provides an in-depth overview of various bug bounty platforms, including their features, processes, and unique characteristics. Learners will gain practical knowledge on how to participate in vulnerability reporting, navigate different platforms, and understand the importance of responsible disclosure. It equips learners with the skills needed to engage effectively in bug bounty programs.

What's included

7 videos1 assignment

This module explores the use of mindmaps in organizing reconnaissance data and planning bug bounty strategies. Learners will gain practical insights into visual thinking techniques and how to structure information effectively for cybersecurity workflows. The content includes real-world examples and knowledge checks to reinforce key concepts.

What's included

5 videos2 assignments

Instructor

Packt - Course Instructors
Packt
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