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Stephano Kambeta
Stephano Kambeta

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Penetration Testing on Android: Using Termux Like a Pro

Want to turn your Android phone into a penetration testing machine? With Termux, it's not only possible — it's powerful, fast, and totally portable. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to start doing real penetration testing using Termux, all without root access.

What You Need

  • An Android phone with at least 2GB RAM
  • Termux app installed (from F-Droid is recommended)
  • Stable internet connection
  • Basic understanding of Linux commands

Why Use Termux for Penetration Testing?

Termux gives you a Linux shell with package management and direct command-line access. You can install and run popular pentesting tools directly from your phone — without needing a computer or rooting your device.

Install Termux and Update Packages

pkg update && pkg upgrade pkg install git curl python -y 
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This ensures your system is clean and ready for tools.

Best Penetration Testing Tools for Termux

  • Nmap : Network scanner
  • Hydra : Brute force password cracker
  • SQLmap : SQL injection tool
  • Metasploit : Complete exploitation framework
  • ReconDog : Simple info gathering tool

Example: Install Nmap

pkg install nmap 
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Scan a target:

nmap -sV target-ip 
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Running Metasploit in Termux

Metasploit is heavy but works well on higher-end phones. To install it:

 pkg install unstable-repo pkg install metasploit 
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Start it with:

msfconsole 
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Use modules like exploit/multi/handler to catch reverse shells from payloads you generate.

Phishing and Social Engineering with Termux

Use tools like:

  • Zphisher : Phishing page generator
  • Seeker : GPS location tracking via links

Always use these tools ethically. They’re great for security awareness demos or ethical testing, not illegal hacking.

Staying Safe and Legal

Never attack systems you don’t own or have permission to test. Always follow responsible disclosure and legal penetration testing practices.

Final Thoughts

With Termux, your Android phone becomes a powerful pen-testing platform. You can scan networks, test vulnerabilities, and learn cybersecurity hands-on — anywhere you go. Just remember, knowledge is power, but only when used responsibly.

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