Semgrep

What is Semgrep?

Semgrep is a fast SAST engine with easy rules for many languages.

Find insecure patterns in source code before merge.

Official website: Semgrep · Documentation

When do you use it?

• You need Lightweight static analysis for many languages.
• You are following a CYNARKS lab or authorized engagement that calls for Semgrep.
• You already tried simpler checks and need this tool’s deeper capability.

Who uses it?

• Cloud security engineers
• DevSecOps
• Platform / SRE security

How do you use it? (typical flow)

1. Install Semgrep using the steps below (prefer Kali package or official installer).
2. Confirm you have authorization for the target (lab VM, own system, or written scope).
3. Run --help / man (or the Help section) to see current flags for your version.
4. Start with a safe example from Basic commands against localhost or an authorized lab target.
5. Record what you ran, what you observed, and any follow-up (filter, report, remediation).

Help & manual (like man / --help)

Every serious tool has a built-in way to look up flags. Learn these first so you are not stuck memorizing every option.

1. 1. Help

   semgrep --help

2. 2. Docs

   https://semgrep.dev/docs/

1. Installation

2. Basic commands

1. 1. Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

   semgrep --config auto .

   Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

2. 2. Show help

   semgrep --help

   List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).

3. 3. Short help

   semgrep -h

   Alternate help flag when supported.

4. 4. List all options

   --help / -h

   List all options

Options / flags

5. Useful features

• Core workflow and interface
• Reading and interpreting output
• Key configuration options
• Integrating into a professional workflow

6. Practical examples

1. Example 1: Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

   semgrep --config auto .

   Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

2. Example 2: Show help

   semgrep --help

   List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).

3. Example 3: Short help

   semgrep -h

   Alternate help flag when supported.

4. Example 4: List all options

   --help / -h

   List all options

7. Important notes

• Semgrep is used by professionals for legitimate defense, testing and research.
• Authorized targets only — labs, systems you own, or written permission.
• Prefer reading --help / man / official docs for your installed version; flags change over time.