Google Dorking, also known as Google Hacking, is a technique used to find sensitive information that's not usually accessible through traditional search methods. In this view, we'll explore everything you need to know about Google Dorking, including how it works, its risks, and how to protect yourself from it.

What is Google Dorking?

Google Dorking is the use of advanced search operators in Google's search engine to find sensitive information that's not readily available through traditional search methods. It's a technique that's used by security professionals and hackers alike to find information that could be used for malicious purposes.

Google dorking is a method of passive hacking that makes use of a custom query. Google is used by hackers to find websites that have security flaws and/or sensitive information that they can use, typically for malicious purposes.

Since 2002, dorking has typically involved utilizing a search engine as a tool for hacking. Dorking is made easier by Google's extensive web crawling capabilities. With a Google numskull, assailants can get to a great deal of data they wouldn't have the option to get with basic questions. The following is a list of this information:

• Usernames and passwords, 
• Email address lists,
• Sensitive documents, 
• Personally identifiable information, 
• Personally identifiable financial information, and 
• Website vulnerabilities.

These items are frequently used for a variety of illegal activities, such as cybercrime, cyberterrorism, industrial espionage, identity theft, and cyberstalking. On the dark web, hackers may also offer large sums of money for the sale of this data to other criminals.

How does Google Dorking work?

Google Dorking works by using advanced search operators to narrow down search results and find specific information. Advanced search operators are special keywords that can be used in a search query to refine the results returned by Google.

For example, using the "site:" operator followed by a website's URL can limit the search results to only that website. Using the "intitle:" operator followed by a specific word or phrase can limit the search results to pages that have that word or phrase in the title.

Using these advanced search operators, a Google Dorker can find sensitive information such as usernames and passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal information that's not publicly available.

A Google dork query can be used to search for files or information on a website or domain using multiple parameters. This string returns PDF documents with "sensitive but unclassified" anywhere in the text for the website https://www.governmentwebsite.gov:

Filetype for "sensitive but unclassified": site: pdf governmentwebsite.gov A hacker who gains access to a website's internal documents may also acquire additional sensitive data. Name, revision history, deletions, dates, and other information can often be found in document metadata that the author is unaware of.

Metadata can be easily accessed by an intruder equipped with hacking tools and knowledgeable about Google dorking. Before publishing documents on a website, it is best practice to remove all metadata. Sanitizing documents can also guarantee that only authorized individuals have access to the intended information.

What are the risks of Google Dorking?

The risks of Google Dorking are significant. By using Google Dorking techniques, hackers and malicious actors can find sensitive information that can be used to compromise security systems and steal personal information.

For example, a hacker could use Google Dorking to find a list of usernames and passwords that were posted publicly online. They could then use those credentials to access sensitive information, such as financial records, email accounts, or corporate networks.

What can you do to protect yourself from Google Dorking?

There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from Google Dorking.

Use strong passwords
Using strong, unique passwords for each online account can prevent hackers from using Google Dorking to access sensitive information.

Be cautious with what you share online
Avoid sharing sensitive information online, such as your social security number, bank account information, and other personal information.

Use two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone.

Use a VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) can protect your online activities from being tracked by hackers and malicious actors.

Keep your software up to date
Keeping your software up to date can prevent hackers from exploiting known vulnerabilities in outdated software.

In conclusion, Google Dorking is a technique used to find sensitive information that's not usually accessible through traditional search methods. While it can be a powerful tool for security professionals, it can also be used by hackers and malicious actors to compromise security systems and steal personal information. By taking steps to protect yourself, such as using strong passwords, being cautious with what you share online, and using two-factor authentication, you can reduce the risks of Google Dorking and keep your personal information safe.