
Critical Thinking - Bug Bounty Podcast
A "by Hackers for Hackers" podcast focused on technical content ranging from bug bounty tips, to write-up explanations, to the latest hacking techniques.
Latest episodes

Mar 20, 2025 • 1h 41min
Episode 115: Mentee to Career Hacker - Mokusou (So Sakaguchi)
So Sakaguchi, a full-time bug bounty hunter known for his expertise in client-side vulnerabilities, joins the conversation. The highlights include sharing insights on a recent cross-site scripting bug discovered in a Facebook project and a deeper dive into security issues found in Google products. They emphasize the transformative journey from traditional employment to the rewarding world of bug bounties, showcasing the impact of mentorship. Plus, enjoy a surprise bonus segment in Japanese that adds a unique twist!

11 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 1h 22min
Episode 114: Single Page Application Hacking Playbook
Dive into the world of hacking Single Page Applications (SPAs) as the hosts unravel techniques and tools like Shadow Repeater. Explore security vulnerabilities, including cross-site scripting and JWT exploitation, while uncovering the importance of understanding API endpoints. Discover how the integration of AI can enhance testing processes and learn about recent cybersecurity news, such as the launch of Hackadvisor, a platform for bug bounty ratings. Tune in for insights that merge fitness with cybersecurity in a unique twist!

Mar 6, 2025 • 1h 29min
Episode 113: Best Technical Takeaways from Portswigger Top 10 2024
Explore the fascinating world of web vulnerabilities as the hosts dive into the Portswigger Top 10 for 2024! Learn about OAuth hijacking and cookie tossing exploits that compromise security. They also unravel the vulnerabilities in PDF.js and the significant role of AI in application security. Discover the latest trends in bug hunting, including SQL injection, confusion attacks, and innovative techniques like the 'worst fit' algorithm for vulnerability discovery. The mix of personal stories and technical insights keeps the discussion engaging!

Feb 27, 2025 • 1h 8min
Episode 112: Interview with Ciarán Cotter (MonkeHack) - Critical Lab Researcher and Full-time Hunter
Ciarán Cotter, known as MonkeHack, is a dedicated bug bounty hunter and Critical Lab Researcher. He shares his insights on navigating complex vulnerabilities, particularly in WebSockets and Angular applications, revealing advanced exploitation techniques. The conversation touches on the rise of AI-related threats like prompt injection and the use of AI tools to enhance hacking strategies. Ciarán also emphasizes the importance of community collaboration in cybersecurity, making it a captivating dive into the ever-evolving world of ethical hacking.

Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 49min
Episode 111: How to Bypass DOMPurify in Bug Bounty with Kevin Mizu
Kevin Mizu, a security researcher at Bisecure specializing in web app security, discusses the critical vulnerabilities associated with DOMPurify. He explores dangerous allow-lists, improper sanitization techniques, and the significance of managing configurations. Mizu shares insights into his own bug bounty experiences, including the exploitation of misconfigured regex patterns and the nuances of Unicode normalization. The conversations emphasize creative thinking in cybersecurity and the intricate methods used to bypass HTML sanitization, underscoring the complexities in maintaining web application security.

Feb 13, 2025 • 50min
Episode 110: Oauth Gadget Correlation and Common Attacks
This discussion dives into the intriguing world of OAuth vulnerabilities and the tactics hackers employ to exploit them. It highlights a critical bypass in DOMPurify, explores AI's role in vulnerability testing, and underscores the importance of secure API key management. The speakers examine OAuth flows and common attack vectors, sharing insights on enhancing security practices. Additionally, they reveal shocking vulnerabilities in Azure AD, demonstrating the risks of inadequate token validation. It's an engaging mix of technical insights and community-driven education.

Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 2min
Episode 109: Creative Recon - Alternative Techniques
Dive into the latest drama surrounding DeepSeek and the implications of AI in security measures like CAPTCHA and 2FA. Discover the challenges of AI training costs and the vulnerabilities linked to an AI database. Explore innovative vulnerability reporting techniques, highlighting 'report pointers' for credibility. Get insights into alternative reconnaissance methods in bug hunting, and learn how to uncover hidden assets and vulnerabilities using modern tools and AI. An exciting blend of technology and security awaits!

Jan 30, 2025 • 1h 31min
Episode 108: How to Hack Salesforce, ServiceNow, and Other SaaS Products With Aaron Costello
Aaron Costello, a SaaS security expert known for his insights on misconfigurations, dives into the complexities of hacking Salesforce, ServiceNow, and Power Pages. He humorously contrasts hacker stereotypes with dedicated bug bounty hunters. Discussion includes the dangers of file upload vulnerabilities and the significance of proper access controls. Notably, he explores Sockle injection vulnerabilities and the intricacies of Salesforce Apex classes, while emphasizing collaboration in identifying security flaws across various SaaS platforms. Tune in for practical techniques and insider insights!

Jan 23, 2025 • 1h 6min
Episode 107: Bypassing Cross-Origin Browser Headers
Dive into the world of cybersecurity as the hosts discuss the intricacies of cross-origin security headers and share insights from their experiences. Discover vulnerabilities in Google's OAuth system and learn about gift card hacking exploits. Explore the importance of teaching kids about tech through fun anecdotes and the role of community in supporting innovative research. With a new co-host and engaging discussions on AI in security, this episode is packed with information for both tech lovers and aspiring hackers alike!

Jan 16, 2025 • 58min
Episode 106: Announcing our new cohost...
The podcast introduces a new co-host, Joseph Thacker, who shares his journey into full-time bug bounty hunting. Highlights include discussions on double-click jacking and its implications for web security. The hosts delve into the significance of automation in bug hunting, showcasing various tools and techniques. They also explore character set attacks and SVG XSS vulnerabilities, while emphasizing the need for robust defenses. Finally, a look ahead reveals plans for enhanced community engagement and original research initiatives in the coming years.