The following is a general strategy to identify and characterize unpublicized operations in a computer program:
Identify potential areas of the program where undocumented features might exist. This could include any parts of the program that have been customized, or any features that seem to work differently from the documented behavior.
Use testing tools to examine the program's behavior and identify any differences from the documented behavior. This could include debugging tools, testing frameworks, or custom scripts that simulate program inputs.
Analyze the program's source code to identify any unusual or suspicious behavior. This could include reviewing the program's libraries and dependencies, examining code for hidden or obfuscated functions, or searching for specific keywords or patterns.
Conduct interviews with program developers, testers, or other staff to identify any undocumented features or behavior. This could include asking about any known workarounds or hacks, or querying staff about any unusual or unexpected behaviors they have observed.
Collaborate with other security researchers to share information about any potential undocumented features or behavior. This could include participating in online forums, attending conferences, or sharing information through social media.
Document any findings in detail, including any discovered functionality, how it is accessed, and any potential security implications. This information can be used to develop mitigation strategies or to communicate with program developers and other stakeholders.