Penetration Test
@fkclai
Penetration test (PenTest) is an authorized simulated cyber attack on a computer system, it is not to be confused with vulnerability scanning. The PenTest is performed manually and supported with automated tools to identify weaknesses in the system.
What is the Difference Between Vulnerability Scans and PenTest?
Vulnerability scanners are automated tools to examine the environment to identify known weaknesses in an unpatched environment. Upon completion of scanning, usually, the tool will create a report of the vulnerabilities uncovered. The scanner can uncover thousands of vulnerabilities as of the scanning limitation, prioritization is needed. Additionally, those reported scores do not truly reflect the circumstances of each individual environment. Furthermore, the scanner can only identify the known vulnerability, it cannot find the logical errors, business-related and zero-day vulnerabilities.
Vulnerability scans provide a valuable picture of the potential security weaknesses, while PenTst can add context by seeing if the vulnerabilities could be leveraged to gain access.
The role of a penetration test in modern security operations from a Threat-Informed Cyber Defense perspective
Threat-Informed Defense:
How It Relates to Penetration Test:
PenTest is a simulated cyberattack used to identify vulnerabilities and strategize ways to circumvent defense measures.
Threat-informed PenTest (TIP) goes beyond traditional PenTest. It emulates tactics and techniques used by specific emerging threat actors targeting your industry.
Proactive Vulnerability Identification:
Traditional View:
PenTest identifies vulnerabilities before malicious actors exploit them.
Early detection allows remediation, preventing costly data breaches.
Threat-Informed View:
TIP focuses on specific adversaries’ behaviors.
Holistic Security Posture:
Traditional View:
PenTest evaluates existing defense mechanisms across systems, networks, and applications.
Threat-Informed View:
TIP considers threat actors’ tactics and techniques.
Community Collaboration:
Traditional View:
PenTest benefits the organization.
It’s part of routine security practices.
Threat-Informed View:
TIP contributes to a global community of cyber defenders.
In summary, threat-informed PenTest bridges the gap between traditional PenTest and targeted threat scenarios. By understanding specific adversaries’ behaviors, organizations can better prepare and defend against cyber threats.
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