> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://contrxl.gitbook.io/contrxl/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://contrxl.gitbook.io/contrxl/hacking/cloud-attack-vectors/privilege-escalation.md).

# Privilege Escalation

This is the act of exploiting a bug or flaw in software/firmware to gain access to resources that would typically be protected. This results in a user gaining privileges beyond what the developer originally intended. There are two main types of privilege escalation:

* Vertical Privilege Escalation: this is when a low-privilege user access a function reserved for a high-privilege user. For example, a standard user accessing administrative functions.
* Horizontal Privilege Escalation: this is when a normal user accesses functions intended for another normal user. For example, user A is able to access user B's emails.