# cat - Read File Contents

Read and display the contents of a file on the target system.

## Description

The `cat` command reads and displays the contents of a file on the target system. It automatically detects and extracts credentials from file contents including plaintext passwords, NTLM hashes, and domain credentials.

## Syntax

```
cat <file_path>
```

## Parameters

- `file_path` (required): Path to the file to read. Supports both absolute and relative paths.

## Examples

```
cat C:\Users\Administrator\Desktop\notes.txt
cat config.ini
cat C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts
```

## Features

- Supports both absolute and relative paths (relative paths are resolved using the current working directory)
- Automatically detects and extracts credentials from file contents including:

## Output

```
[cat] Reading file: C:\Users\Administrator\notes.txt
Hello, this is a test file.

[cat] Credentials detected:
- Password: MyPassword123
- Hash: aad3b435b51404ee:1234567890abcdef...
```

## OPSEC Considerations

- File reads are logged by EDR/XDR solutions
- Accessing sensitive files (System32, Program Files) may trigger alerts
- Consider using `download` for large files instead of `cat`

## Related

[Credentials Support](../../../features.md#credentials-support)

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**Command Category:** File System  
**Requires Admin:** No