Goal
You don’t get the next password directly.
Instead, you’re given a private SSH key that can be used to log into the next level (user bandit14).
Hints
- The key is usually in your home directory (look for something like
sshkey.private). - SSH uses
-i <keyfile>to specify an identity file. - You may need
chmod 600on the key.
Solution (click to reveal)
- SSH into the current level:
ssh bandit14@bandit.labs.overthewire.org -p 2220
- List files and find the private key:
ls -la
- Lock down permissions (SSH is strict):
chmod 600 sshkey.private
- Use the key to SSH as the next user:
ssh -i sshkey.private bandit14@localhost
Once logged in as bandit14, read the password file:
cat /etc/bandit_pass/bandit14
That output is the password for Level 15.
Notes
- Using
localhostkeeps you on the same box; you’re just authenticating differently.