beef

beef [options]

The beef command typically launches the BeEF Browser Exploitation Framework. Without options, it attempts to start the framework with default configurations, including the web server and the administration user interface. Options are used to customize its behavior, such as specifying network bindings, database actions, or debug modes.

--debug
    Enables verbose debug output for troubleshooting and development.

--reset-db
    Resets the BeEF database, deleting all hooked browsers and configurations. Use with caution as this action is irreversible.

--no-ui
    Starts the BeEF framework without launching the graphical web user interface.

--admin-user <user>
    Sets a custom username for the BeEF administration interface.

--admin-pass <pass>
    Sets a custom password for the BeEF administration interface.

--port <port>
    Specifies the port number for the BeEF web server (default is 3000 for the UI).

--host <host>
    Specifies the host address to bind the BeEF web server to (default is 0.0.0.0, binding to all interfaces).

--dir <path>
    Sets the working directory for BeEF configuration files and modules.

--config <path>
    Specifies an alternative configuration file to use instead of the default.

--skip-install
    Skips the initial installation and dependency checks during startup.

--verbose
    Enables verbose output messages during execution.

-v, --version
    Displays the BeEF framework version information and exits.

-h, --help
    Shows the help message and available command-line options.

BeEF (Browser Exploitation Framework) is a professional open-source penetration testing tool that focuses on the web browser. Unlike other security frameworks that target network or system vulnerabilities, BeEF targets the client-side attack surface. It utilizes a variety of attack vectors to hook vulnerable browsers, allowing an attacker to launch command modules against the hooked browser. BeEF's primary focus is leveraging Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities to gain control over a user's browser, turning it into a proxy for further attacks. It provides a comprehensive command-and-control interface, enabling testers to execute client-side attacks, perform social engineering, and gather information from the hooked browsers. It's widely used by ethical hackers and security researchers to demonstrate the risks associated with browser-based vulnerabilities.

The beef command, as part of the BeEF framework, is a powerful tool designed for penetration testing and educational purposes.
Misuse of this tool against systems or individuals without explicit prior consent is illegal and unethical.
Users are solely responsible for their actions and must ensure they comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
Running BeEF may require specific system dependencies (e.g., Ruby, specific gems) which need to be installed beforehand.
The framework primarily targets client-side vulnerabilities, especially XSS, and its effectiveness depends on the presence of such vulnerabilities.

BeEF fundamentally shifts the focus of penetration testing from server-side infrastructure to the client-side browser.
It exploits the trust users place in web applications to compromise their browsing session, enabling a wide range of post-exploitation activities directly from the browser.

The core functionality of BeEF relies on 'hooking' a browser.
This is typically achieved by injecting a JavaScript hook into a vulnerable web page (e.g., via XSS).
Once hooked, the browser maintains a persistent connection to the BeEF control panel, allowing the tester to execute command modules and gather information silently.

BeEF, an acronym for Browser Exploitation Framework, originated as an open-source project aimed at demonstrating the severe security implications of client-side web vulnerabilities, particularly Cross-Site Scripting (XSS).
It was initially developed by a team of security researchers, with early versions emerging around 2006-2007.
Its development gained momentum as web applications became more complex and browser vulnerabilities became a significant attack vector.
BeEF quickly established itself as a go-to tool in the penetration testing community for its unique focus on the browser as a target.
It has seen continuous updates and improvements, adapting to new browser technologies and evolving attack techniques, solidifying its position as a leading client-side exploitation framework.

metasploit(1), nmap(1), wireshark(1)