Hacking Techniques: Stealing Admin Passwords without Changing the Admin Password

Introduction

The topic of stealing admin passwords without changing the actual password is indeed a complex and sensitive one, especially in the realm of ethical hacking and cybersecurity. This article explores potential methods that some have attempted in past scenarios, providing a historical and academic insight rather than encouraging illegal activities.

Old School Method: Printer Redirect

A notable technique from the early days of computing involves redirecting keyboard input, such as typing a password, to be sent to a connected printer. Here's how it worked:

1. Printer Initialization

Access to the system and the configuration of the printer involve a few steps. The hacker needs to know the system configuration, particularly whether the printer is directed to Prn1 or Line Printer 1 (Lpt1). Redirecting keystrokes to the printer means the password would be printed line by line on the paper.

2. System Configuration

The printer needs to be configured to print to Prn1. This is because the standard output of the displayed text goes to the screen while the password, when typed, would also be sent to the printer. The critical step is timing: once the admin types their password, it must be noted and printed before it can be sanitized or overwritten by the system. Lee S. Burnette describes in Communication an older method to accomplish this:

The trick you may need to do. I can give you another tip the program 'Debug' may help.

Debug is an assembler-editing debugger for DOS operating systems, which allows the manipulation of memory and control of the system's hardware. It is an advanced tool but can be used to perform complex and low-level tasks, like redirecting output to a printer.

Modern Approach: Using Live OS

A more modern method involves booting from a Live OS, which can provide the attacker with extensive control over the system. Live Windows or live Linux systems can be used to gain access, even if the admin has set secure boot options. Here's how this method works:

1. Live Operating System

A USB flash drive can be used to boot a Live Operating System, such as a Linux distribution or a version of Windows. This allows the attacker to bypass the need for physical access to the admin password.

2. Boot Management

To boot from a USB flash drive, the system must be configured to allow such an action. Typically, this involves pressing a function key (usually F12) during Boot Menu initialization. If the system is set to boot from hard drives only, an admin might need to change the boot order in the BIOS settings. However, if a BIOS password is set, the attacker must clear it by removing the onboard battery and shorting the terminals for a few seconds.

Hacking Tools and Techniques

To conduct the above methods effectively, specialized tools and commands are essential:

Dos Commands and Debug Program

DIR Command: Displays the directory listing of files in a folder. ATTRIB Command: Modifies file attributes, useful for hiding files or revealing hidden files. For example, typing attrib at the command prompt will show how to use the attrib command. Debug: An assembler-editing debugger for DOS operating systems, used for low-level system manipulation.

Note: These methods are best learned through academic and legal channels, such as cybersecurity training and courses on ethical hacking.

Conclusion

Stealing admin passwords is a serious matter and should only be attempted in a controlled legal environment, such as cybersecurity training and ethical hacking courses. While the old-school method and the live OS approach offer insights into historical and modern techniques, it is crucial to understand the ethical implications and legal boundaries.