overthewire-writeups

Bandit01 -> 02: Simply lovely Dash

Challenge

Level Description

The instruction for this level is quite clear tho, they said the password for the next level is stroed in a file called -, and its located in the home directory. So, let’s go.

The Process

Just like the previous level, I check the home directory first with ls and there is a file named -.

I little bit confused, and then I remember that we can use command cat with Input Redirection < for read a filename with dash.

I type

$ cat < -

There it is, the password for the next level.

Password for the Next Level

[SPOILER]

What I Learned

• Special Character Handling: Files named - have a special meaning (Standard Input) for many Linux commands. To read them, we can use Input Redirection < - or specify the file path explicitly ./- to avoid ambiguity.
• Clearing Command Usage Confusion: When a command doesn’t behave as expected, look closely at the error or usage messages—they can point you toward the solution.
• Reinforcing File Operations: Commands like cat can have quirks, and understanding how to handle them is key for CTF challenges.

Helpful Reading Material

• man cat – The manual page can help you understand why - is treated as a special option.
• Linux Handling Special Filenames