Codebreakers Chronicles: Ethical Hacking Journey with Maneesha Dudekula

As a recent graduate in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Srinivasa Ramanujan Institute of Technology, I discovered my passion for cybersecurity early in my academic journey. What began as a curiosity about how systems and networks operate soon evolved into a pursuit of uncovering vulnerabilities and strengthening defences in the digital world. Today, I’m honored to share my journey as part of Com Olho's "Codebreakers Chronicles."

Early Steps in Cybersecurity

The turning point for me came during my final year of engineering when I enrolled in a training program at Cyberthreya Institute. Over three months, I dived deep into the world of bug bounties, vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing. This hands-on training sharpened my skills in identifying security flaws and responding to real-world challenges. Platforms like  Com Olho became my arenas, where I not only learned but also competed to refine my expertise.

During my journey, I earned a spot in the Top 5% of performers on Com Olho. I was awarded the "Three Half of the Fame" and received a Certificate of Appreciation for my achievements. These milestones reaffirmed my dedication to ethical hacking and cybersecurity, igniting a deeper desire to grow in this field.

Challenges and Learning Curves

Like every journey, mine wasn’t without challenges. One of the most demanding tasks I encountered was during a black-box penetration testing assignment. It required not only technical expertise but also strategic thinking and perseverance. Identifying vulnerabilities such as CORS misconfigurations, cookie attribute flaws, and timing attacks (like Lucky 13) taught me the importance of patience, attention to detail, and continuous learning.

Another challenging yet rewarding experience was discovering zero-day vulnerabilities and reporting them responsibly. This process not only tested my technical knowledge but also reinforced the ethical responsibilities that come with being a cybersecurity professional.

Tools and Techniques

Throughout my journey, tools like Burp Suite, Kali Linux, Wireshark, Metasploit, Nmap, Maltego, and Bash scripting became integral to my workflow. By mastering these tools, I developed expertise in tackling OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities, which I applied extensively during bug bounty programs and real-world challenges.

My interest also extends to mobile and web application penetration testing, where I explore new methods to identify and mitigate potential risks. Each test and report is a step closer to creating a safer digital environment.

Triumphs and Milestones

One of my proudest achievements was being recognised in Com Olho’s community. The accolades and badges I earned on the platform, coupled with my success in Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges, are testaments to my progress in this field. Additionally, my one-month internship at Techno Hacks Edutech allowed me to refine my practical skills further, preparing me for future professional roles.

Currently, I am doing an internship at Digital Age Pvt Ltd, where I continue to enhance my cybersecurity skills and gain more industry exposure.

Beyond technical skills, I’ve also received awards in Kisan Mela and Ignite-3.0 training, showcasing my ability to adapt and excel across diverse challenges.

The Driving Force

What drives my passion for cybersecurity is the opportunity to make a tangible impact. Every vulnerability discovered and every system secured is a step toward a safer digital space. My journey is fueled by the belief that ethical hackers are the guardians of the digital era, and I’m proud to contribute to this mission.

Looking Ahead

I’m currently seeking a full-time role as a Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Tester, where I can continue to apply and expand my skills. I aspire to inspire others in the cybersecurity community, just as many have inspired me.

To all budding security researchers, remember: curiosity and persistence are your greatest allies. Never stop learning, experimenting, and questioning. The journey is as rewarding as the destination.

I would like to express my gratitude to Com Olho for providing a platform that has not only recognised my efforts but also helped me improve my skills in ethical hacking. The challenges and opportunities it offers are unparalleled, making it an invaluable resource for aspiring security researchers.

Thank you, Com Olho, for providing a platform to grow, compete, and connect. It’s a privilege to be part of such a dynamic community, and I look forward to contributing further. Thank you for giving me the platform to share my story.