Python EH: 89 | Website Penetration Testing With Python | Taking A Look At Ransomware

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through using Python for ethical hacking, specifically focusing on website penetration testing and understanding ransomware. By following these steps, you'll develop foundational skills in ethical hacking that can enhance your career prospects in cybersecurity. This course is designed for beginners, so no prior knowledge is required.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Environment

To start ethical hacking with Python, you need a suitable environment. Follow these steps:

1. Install Kali Linux:

   • Download Kali Linux from the official Kali website.
   • Create a bootable USB or set it up as a virtual machine using software like VirtualBox or VMware.
   • Follow the installation prompts to complete the setup.

2. Install Python:

   • Most Kali Linux installations come with Python pre-installed.
   • You can check the installation by opening the terminal and typing:

     python --version
     

   • If Python is not installed, use:

     sudo apt-get install python3
     

Step 2: Learning Basic Python Scripting

Understanding how to write basic Python scripts is crucial for ethical hacking. Here’s how to get started:

1. Familiarize Yourself with Python Syntax:

   • Learn basic commands such as print statements and variable declarations.
   • Example:

     print("Hello, Ethical Hacking!")
     

2. Write Simple Scripts:

   • Create a script that performs a simple task, such as calculating the sum of two numbers:

     a = 5
     b = 10
     print("Sum:", a + b)
     

Step 3: Conducting Port and Vulnerability Scanning

Port scanning is critical for identifying open ports on a target system. Here’s how to do it using Python:

1. Use Scapy Library:

   • Install Scapy if it isn't already:

     sudo apt-get install python3-scapy
     

2. Create a Port Scanner:

   • Write a script that scans for open ports:

     from scapy.all import *
     
     ip = input("Enter the target IP: ")
     for port in range(1, 1025):
         pkt = IP(dst=ip)/TCP(dport=port, flags="S")
         response = sr1(pkt, timeout=1, verbose=0)
         if response:
             print(f"Port {port} is open.")
     

Step 4: Understanding SSH and FTP Attacks

SSH and FTP protocols can be exploited if not secured properly. Here’s a basic overview:

1. SSH Attacks:

   • Use brute-force techniques to guess passwords. Consider using libraries such as Paramiko for SSH connections.

2. FTP Attacks:

   • Analyze FTP servers for vulnerabilities, such as anonymous login capabilities.

Step 5: Password Cracking Techniques

Password cracking is a common task in penetration testing. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Use Hash Libraries:
   • Install hashlib to work with different hashing algorithms.
   • Example of cracking a simple hash:

     import hashlib
     
     def crack_password(hash_to_crack, wordlist):
         with open(wordlist, 'r') as file:
             for line in file:
                 if hashlib.md5(line.strip().encode()).hexdigest() == hash_to_crack:
                     return line.strip()
     

Step 6: Creating a Basic Network Sniffer

A network sniffer captures packets traveling over a network. Here's how to create one using Python:

1. Install required libraries:

   • Use Scapy as mentioned earlier.

2. Write a Sniffer Script:

   • Capture packets on the network:

     from scapy.all import sniff
     
     def packet_callback(packet):
         print(packet.summary())
     
     sniff(prn=packet_callback, count=10)
     

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned how to set up your environment for ethical hacking with Python, write basic scripts, conduct port scanning, and understand common attack techniques. The skills you’ve acquired here can be further developed through practice and exploration of additional resources. As a next step, consider diving deeper into specific areas like network analysis or developing your own hacking tools. Happy hacking!