Week 7 Summary

Reading Summary: NETCAT

Netcat is very powerful tool that is similar to Nmap, but has ability to not only read, but also write data across network connections. The process involved using command lines with various command switches allowing to establish sessions and manipulate connections, such as: redirecting traffic, transferring files without any FTP servers via direct connection, execute remote Apps, scripts and procedures; scanning firewall for blocking source routes, and listen to ports. NetCat was designed to be network debugging and investigation tool, but given its capabilities can also be used as a Backdoor. Moreover, NetCat can pipe certain connections made to itself as being server to another service or destination by modifying local system’s scripts.

Additional Resource describes NetCat is verbose details:   http://nc110.sourceforge.net

Question to the Class: 

Given NetCat’s capabilities to read and write any type of TCP and UDP connections and manipulate data, should NetCat be considered as being the Best Tool when it comes to network scanning and vulnerability testing?

In the News:

More than 1 Billion Android devices are vulnerable to hackers once again – Thanks to newly disclosed two new Android Stagefright vulnerabilities

Read more at: http://thehackernews.com/2015/10/android-stagefright-vulnerability.html