Penetration Testing

Penetration testing is an advanced cybersecurity method that is especially useful in complex environments, such as those that make heavy use of cloud computing. In these cases, cloud pen testing is often required. But even when it’s not mandated, regular penetration testing is considered a best practice for cyber hygiene.

By following the Penetration Testing Execution Standard (PTES), companies of all sizes are capable of executing an effective pen test that exposes any issues in their cybersecurity. By conducting penetration (pen) testing, you can determine how a hacker would attack your systems by watching an assault unfold in a controlled environment. And the only way to ensure that this kind of test will work is to make sure it meets certain standards.

One of the primary goals of cyberdefense programs is identifying, preventing, and mitigating attacks. The best way to do this is with targeted programs, such as penetration and intrusion testing, where attackers’ offensive tactics become your company’s defensive training.

Some regulatory frameworks explicitly require penetration testing from eligible parties. But even those that don’t require it outright may still have other mandates that would be met or exceeded efficiently by conducting penetration testing. Thus, penetration assessments are critical for your security infrastructure.

For organizations looking to begin penetration testing, two available options include online (automated) and offline (manual) tests. While automating allows for more frequent and faster testing, manual testing has its own unique benefits in the form of customization and trust.

Looking to pen test your website? Follow this five-step plan for a successful exercise:

• Prepare your defenses to ensure simulated attacks provide the deepest insights
• Negotiate with the testing team to establish scope, targets, and starting positions
• Gather information on your website and web assets to facilitate simulated attacks
• Conduct the agreed-upon penetration testing techniques and escalate, as needed
• Report on findings and use results to optimize defenses, training, and compliance

Starting and running a business is expensive and the expenses do not stop even after your company is making a profit. You have to consider materials, costs of labor, facilities, and equipment just to name a few of the many expenses you have to cover. Another crucial purchase you must consider is that of cybersecurity for your company. 

Penetration testing is critical to identifying security threats to your IT infrastructure before they can blossom into full-blown attacks. Conducting an external “black box” pen test will help you pinpoint security vulnerabilities you may not readily identify with an internal pen test. Read on to learn more about black box pen testing best practices from which you could benefit.

Cyber threats are on every company’s radar, per KPMG’s 2021 CEO Outlook Report. Survey responses from 1,325 participating CEOs indicate that the technology, telecom, and banking industries are the most highly focused on preventing cyberattacks. However, that doesn’t mean everyone else is complacent. Cyber risks ranked #1 as the primary threat to future growth among all CEOs surveyed, and 67% plan to increase funding for threat detection and security innovation. Penetration testing as a service is one such innovation they’re turning to.

Ongoing security testing benefits your organization in many ways. Various methods are used for testing your cyberdefenses, but penetration testing remains one of the most popular. A specific form of vulnerability assessment, the primary benefits of penetration testing include greater security insights, ongoing risk management, and the ability to meet regulatory obligations.