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Hacker Target

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Overview of Hacker Target

Hacker Target provides a budget-friendly entry point into vulnerability scanning, particularly for small businesses or individuals seeking basic security assessments.


Its integration of tools like OpenVAS, Nmap, and Nikto delivers a range of scanning capabilities, from network mapping to web application vulnerability detection.


The OSINT domain profiler offers a valuable overview of the target's attack surface.


While it may not match the depth and sophistication of commercial-grade scanners like Nessus or Qualys, Hacker Target offers a practical and accessible solution for identifying common vulnerabilities and hardening systems against basic attacks.


It's a good option for quick security checks, penetration testing preparation, and WordPress security hardening.


Keep in mind that careful analysis of the results is needed to weed out false positives.

Pros

  • Affordable vulnerability scanning solution.
  • Easy to use interface.
  • Good for quick security checks.
  • OSINT domain surface mapping
  • Valuable for pre-pen test.

Cons

  • Limited scanning capabilities overall.
  • False positives are possible.
  • Basic online interface only.

Main Features

OpenVAS Integration

Hacker Target leverages OpenVAS for vulnerability assessments. This provides a wide range of vulnerability checks based on a regularly updated database. While the performance depends on the target, OpenVAS offers comprehensive coverage, making it a strong foundation for identifying potential security weaknesses. The integration allows users to benefit from a well-established and respected open-source scanning engine without needing to manage it directly.

Nmap Port Scanning

Hacker Target utilizes Nmap for port scanning and network mapping. Nmap is a highly regarded tool known for its speed and accuracy in identifying open ports and services. This feature helps users quickly understand the network landscape of their target and identify potential entry points for attackers. The reliable results from Nmap are crucial for initial reconnaissance and attack surface analysis.

Nikto Web Scanning

Nikto is included for web server vulnerability scanning, targeting common web vulnerabilities. While Nikto can identify potential issues, it's important to be aware of its limitations. Nikto scans can generate false positives, requiring careful analysis of the results. Also, Nikto's scanning patterns are easily detectable, potentially alerting intrusion detection systems.

Domain Profiler (OSINT)

This feature gathers information about a target domain using open-source intelligence techniques. By collecting publicly available data, the Domain Profiler provides a broad overview of the target's attack surface, including subdomains, associated IP addresses, and other relevant information. This is a valuable initial step in understanding a target's online presence and potential vulnerabilities.

Custom Scans

Hacker Target allows users to configure custom scans, enabling them to target specific vulnerabilities or network segments. This flexibility allows experienced users to tailor their scans to focus on areas of particular concern. However, the effectiveness of custom scans depends heavily on the user's expertise in vulnerability scanning and network security.

Scan Types

Network Scanning
Web Application Scanning
WordPress Security Scan
OpenVAS Scan

Detection Methods

Signature-based detection
Port Scanning
Banner Grabbing
Web Crawling
Fuzzing
OSINT

Compliance Standards

OWASP Top 10
PCI DSS
SANS 25

Other Services

Online Network Tools (e.g.
traceroute
ping
DNS lookup)
API access for some tools.

Pricing

Check their website for pricing details.

Check pricing on Hacker Target