# Post Title: 4 Website Hacking Techniques to Try on Your Next Pentest
When it comes to **penetration testing**, having a solid understanding of website hacking techniques is essential. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, there are several methods you can explore. In this post, we’ll cover **four beginner-friendly website hacking techniques** that you can try during your next pentest, complete with live examples to follow along!
## 1. SQL Injection
**SQL Injection** is one of the most common techniques used to exploit vulnerabilities in web applications. This method allows attackers to manipulate a website’s database by injecting malicious SQL queries.
### How to Try It:
– Identify a web form that accepts user input (like a login form).
– Enter a simple SQL command, such as `‘ OR ‘1’=‘1`.
– If successful, you may gain unauthorized access to the database.
## 2. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
**Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)** is another prevalent technique that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. This can lead to data theft or session hijacking.
### How to Try It:
– Find a web application that displays user input without proper validation.
– Input a script, such as ``.
– If the script executes, you’ve successfully performed an XSS attack.
## 3. Directory Traversal
**Directory Traversal** is a technique that allows attackers to access restricted directories and files on a web server. This can expose sensitive information.
### How to Try It:
– Use a URL to access a file, such as `http://example.com/index.php?page=../../etc/passwd`.
– If you can view the contents of the file, you’ve successfully exploited a directory traversal vulnerability.
## 4. Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
**Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)** tricks a user into executing unwanted actions on a web application where they are authenticated. This can lead to unauthorized transactions or changes.
### How to Try It:
– Create a malicious link that performs an action on a target site (like changing a password).
– Send this link to a user who is logged into the target site.
– If the user clicks the link, the action will be executed without their consent.
## Conclusion
These four techniques are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to website hacking. They provide a great starting point for anyone interested in penetration testing. Remember, always practice ethical hacking and ensure you have permission before testing any website.
For more detailed information and live examples, be sure to check out the source of this information: [Hack The Box Blog](https://www.hackthebox.com/blog/website-hacking). Happy hacking!
stop
