What Is Penetration Testing?
Penetration testing or pen testing is a method of evaluating the security of a computer system or network by simulating an attack from a malicious source. Penetration testing is also known as ethical hacking or white-hat hacking.
It is similar to vulnerability testing but more focused on penetration – in other words, gaining access to areas within the network that would not usually be possible even with unlimited time and resources.
The objective of this test is to identify every potential avenue of compromise and determine how each one could be utilised to gain unauthorised access to your company’s sensitive data and systems.
During this process, we simulate all types of attacks and use all steps and methods applicable to break through your system’s security. We can’t list them all as there are far too many, but some common types of attacks include:
- Social engineering
- Physical security penetration
- Buffer overflows, SQL injection
- Malicious software, malware, backdoor, Trojans, etc
Penetration tests are carried out in a very similar way to vulnerability tests. Pen testing is designed to gain access to systems on the network, such as servers and workstations. This includes services such as FTP, SMTP, HTTP, etc., along with database services such as MSSQL and MySQL.
As each test is unique, we would only be able to give more detail once we have had an opportunity to discuss requirements with you to tailor our approach and testing techniques specifically to your needs.
Why Conduct Penetration Testing?
Businesses should conduct penetration tests twice yearly or when there are significant modifications to their networks. They present numerous benefits to network security and the organisation at large.
Threats are constantly evolving, and technology is advancing, making it increasingly harder to protect networks from outside threats.
The primary purpose of penetration tests is to identify vulnerabilities in a system that a malicious hacker can exploit. It also provides information that may be used to strengthen the organisation’s security posture.
Lastly, it tests the effectiveness of company countermeasures and measures taken to reduce risk.
Benefits Of Penetration Testing Services
Enhancing an organization’s security posture and overall resilience in the face of cyber threats.
Improved Security
- Identifies Vulnerabilities: Penetration testing uncovers weaknesses and vulnerabilities in your systems, networks, and applications before malicious hackers can exploit them.
- Enhances Defense: By addressing vulnerabilities and strengthening security measures, your organisation can better protect sensitive data and assets.
Risk Reduction
- Risk Assessment: Penetration testing assesses potential risks and the impact of security flaws, helping organisations make informed decisions about risk management.
- Prevents Data Breaches: Mitigating security vulnerabilities through penetration testing reduces the likelihood of data breaches, safeguarding customer trust and reputation.
Compliance and Regulation
- Meets Regulatory Requirements: Penetration testing is often required to comply with industry regulations and data protection laws, ensuring legal and regulatory compliance.
- Demonstrates Due Diligence: By conducting regular penetration tests, organisations can demonstrate their commitment to cybersecurity and due diligence.
Cost-Effective Security
- Cost Savings: Detecting and addressing vulnerabilities early in the development process is more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of a security breach.
- Avoids Financial Loss: Preventing data breaches and financial losses due to cyberattacks is one of the most significant cost-saving benefits of penetration testing.
Continuous Improvement
- Actionable Recommendations: Penetration testing provides organisations with actionable recommendations to improve security, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Staying Ahead: Regular pen testing helps organisations stay ahead of evolving threats by identifying and addressing new vulnerabilities as they emerge.
Customer Trust
- Protects Reputation: Successful penetration testing helps maintain customer trust and brand reputation, as it shows a commitment to safeguarding sensitive information.
- Competitive Advantage: Demonstrating a strong security posture can give organisations a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
Peace of Mind
- Confidence in Security: Knowing that your systems are regularly tested and fortified against cyber threats provides peace of mind for both businesses and customers.
- Focus on Business: With enhanced security, organizations can focus on their core business activities without the constant fear of cyberattacks.
Cyber Security Penetration Testing Services
Digital transformation has impacted how companies operate. The digital space is an ever-evolving landscape, and with new developments, security risks also increase.
Further, business growth calls for the expansion of the IT network. And to remain on top of your organisation’s cybersecurity requirements, you need a proactive strategy.
Penetration testing services enable you to remain up to date with new ways in which malicious intruders can attack your systems. Thus, you can guarantee client and organisation data security, and you have a greater scope on your network infrastructure.
Penetration testing also provides detailed reporting, which helps in decision-making when allocating resources.
Common Security Vulnerabilities
Some vulnerabilities are specific to an organisation, but there are several common security vulnerabilities.
- Unpatched or outdated software
- Weak passwords and access credentials
- Network misconfiguration, such as unsecured wireless connections and default administrative passwords
- Poorly configured firewalls and routers
- Remote access to the company network over an insecure connection (email)
- Vulnerable network ports that are not closed to outside traffic
- Outdated antivirus programs with outdated signatures
- Denial-of-service attack
- SQL injection attack
- Session hijacking constantly evolve
- Buffer overflow
- Cross-site scripting
- Operating system attacks
Types of penetration testing services (UK)
Penetration testing comprises various approaches, each tailored to uncover distinct vulnerabilities. Here are some of the most common types of security pen tests.
External Network Penetration Testing Services
An external network penetration test aims to identify vulnerabilities related to the public-facing systems of your organisation’s online presence (website, web application, email server, etc.).
Not only does a penetration test show you how a hacker could potentially access your network externally, but it also provides proof that vulnerabilities exist and explanations of the impact they have/could potentially have.
To undergo an external network penetration test, at least one of three components must be present. An internet-facing system, such as a public website or web application, which can be directly accessed from the internet. Wireless access into your organisation’s network from outside its facilities, either through physical access or Wi-Fi signals originating from within. The organisation’s higher-level network is fully accessible from the internet without any type of firewall blocking access to specific systems (i.e. VPN, 3G/4G Cellular Data Connection, etc.).
Internal Network Penetration Testing
Internal pen testing is a cybersecurity test on an organisation’s internal network. The goal of this type of penetration test is to identify security vulnerabilities in the company’s internal systems and evaluate how easily a malicious actor can exploit them from within the organisation.
Depending on the scope of the test, penetration testers (UK) will gain access to the systems in your organisation like an employee and then try to access sensitive data, attempt to gain control of higher-level employee authorisations or even access cloud infrastructure.
Social Engineering Penetration Test
This is the practice of testing your organisation’s communication security through controlled deception. It evaluates your vulnerability to a social engineering attack (“social” being the operative word).
The goal of a pen test is to find out what information a social engineer could extract from your employees and computers to gain access to secure areas.
A good penetration tester will emulate the methods used by real-life hackers and provide recommendations on how your company can improve its defences against them.
Web Application Penetration Test
A web application penetration test analyses the security of a web application, such as a website, a phone app, or external-facing company portal.
Wireless Penetration Test
A wireless penetration test, or wireless security assessment, is a method of evaluating the security of your company’s wireless network.
Remote Working Risk Assessment
With more organisations embracing working remotely, a remote working assessment penetration test helps to identify areas of vulnerabilities in your network.
Penetration Testing Process
Our penetration testing services follow a systematic method.
1. The reconnaissance phase
The reconnaissance phase is where an attacker gathers information about a target system to decide how best to exploit it later. What information should be gathered? That obviously depends on what kind of vulnerability you’re looking for (whether it’s an authentication or configuration problem) and what type of penetration test/audit you are performing.
2. Scanning
The scanning phase consists of identifying vulnerabilities in the target system. This is done using tools such as Nessus, Nexpose, SNMP check, Hydra, and Metasploit (to name a few) or even manually if you want to get really technical about it. There are countless web application scanning tools available, and knowing which one to use will depend on your needs. Most testers will conduct a static or dynamic analysis. If there is an upgrade in the system, the scan will also look for old security patches that a hacker could exploit.
3. Gaining access
This stage involves accessing the system using the weaknesses identified in the scanning stage. Once the tester identifies entry points, they exploit these vulnerabilities using techniques like SQL map, Metasploit, SQL injection, etc.
This is where you actually perform the attack. The important part about this phase is not just finding a vulnerability but also knowing how to use it – if you do manage to find an exploit for your target, then chances are it won’t work the first time around. That’s why having a debugger is very useful; sometimes, the best way to learn how to use an exploit properly is by trying it out with a debugger attached so that you can see what variables must be changed before the desired results take place.
4. Maintaining access
The tester will try to discover how much hackers can exploit the identified weakness. The tester acts as a persistent attacker trying to access privileged areas of the network.
Once you’ve successfully gained access, this phase will consist of maintaining that access for as long as possible without being detected.
One example of this technique is using worms – think of malware that spreads across an entire network without any user interaction required. They can help increase your attack surface by automatically finding new vulnerabilities in other systems, all the while hiding the fact that it’s an attack.
5. Covering tracks phase
This phase requires proficiency in removing all evidence of your activities for good – if you don’t, then all your hard work could be in vain. Generally, this is done by deleting logs, removing or disabling security software, and hiding files/folders so they can’t be found.
6. Analysis and reporting
During this stage, the tester provides a comprehensive report on their findings and recommendations for corrective actions to mitigate identified vulnerabilities. The penetration testing team documents all found vulnerabilities along with information regarding how it was discovered. Additionally, general system and application information are documented, like operating systems used, web server versions, etc., and problems or abnormalities that cannot be explained by the penetration testers (UK) themselves.
Why Choose CloudTech24?
Experienced and Certified Penetration Testers
When it comes to cyber security, it’s always helpful to have a team of experienced professionals behind you. Their experience not only helps reduce overall costs but ensures that there is no room for error. Our team of CREST-certified experts is well-versed in the accepted penetration testing methodology. The pen testing will be in accordance with PCI DSS, CREST, and ISO 27001 regulations and standards. Further, the team has enough skill and remains up to date with current hacking methods that hackers could use to access your security controls.
Bespoke Packages
At CloudTech24, we work with SMEs, so we know your cybersecurity needs from other organisations. That’s why we tailor our pen testing packages to fit your needs and budget. The penetration testing service package that you select will reflect the actual needs of your organisation.
Integration With Your IT Support Needs
CloudTech24 provides an array of IT support needs, so you don’t have to deal with different service providers while catering to your IT security health. We are a one-stop shop for all your IT support needs. Having a penetration testing service provider that provides related services gives you better control over your overall IT strategy.
Reliable and Speedy Service Delivery
Our reliability has positioned us as a leading IT support provider in London, Sussex, and the UK. We ensure an environment of open communication with our customers throughout the service delivery period. Our friendly and professional support team is easily accessible for any inquiries at any stage of the process.
Work with one of the UK’s top penetration testing companies
Whether you are a small business looking to strengthen your security against hackers or a large company with multiple resources to defend, CloudTech24’s penetration testing services are for you. Penetration testing is the only way to identify vulnerabilities in your system and cure them before being exploited by unwelcome users.
Our experienced professionals will try to exploit your systems using pre-defined techniques and custom ones developed specifically for your system during the process. We help provide comprehensive analysis on minimising risks moving forward with detailed reports about all possible flaws identified.
Contact us, and our friendly support team will guide you on how to get started.
Need Cyber Security Coverage From A Market Leading SOC?
Our Security Operations Centre provides continuous coverage and managed security services to improve security posture and safeguard business operations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Security Pen Testing
HOW MUCH DOES PENETRATION TESTING COST?
The cost of pen testing differs depending on variables like complexity, methodology, the pen testers’ experience, remediation, and whether the testing needs to be onsite. Average prices range from £1,000 to £40,000, depending on the scope. Pen testers in the UK offer different packages so every business can find a suitable package that fits their needs and budget.
Is Penetration Testing Legal In The UK?
Penetration testing is generally legal in the UK, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. It’s crucial to have explicit permission from the owner of the system or network being tested. Unauthorized penetration testing can potentially lead to legal consequences, as it may be considered a violation of computer misuse laws.
WHAT ARE PENETRATION TESTING SERVICES?
A vulnerability assessment is done with automated tools to find vulnerabilities in a computer system, while security professionals do penetration testing manually.
Pen tests are more extensive than vulnerability assessments. Penetration testing is designed to simulate what an actual attack would look like. In contrast, a vulnerability assessment is less comprehensive and only indicates where vulnerabilities exist or might exist rather than exploiting them or attempting to access/exploit network resources.
While both are valuable tools for pinpointing security vulnerabilities, a pen test is more detailed and can identify flaws like network configurations and password encryption. You get more accurate information, and retesting is done after remediation.
Pen tests are done by an external team of ethical hackers who conduct a range of penetration testing services and have a vast knowledge of web application security, remote access attacks, and operating systems. They simulate attacks from the perspective of an insider and an external party. Vulnerability scans are conducted frequently and give an insight into the network security, but a security pen test is more thorough.
What Are The Benefits of Penetration Testing?
Penetration testing, a crucial component of proactive cybersecurity, provides organizations with valuable insights into the vulnerabilities present in their systems, networks, and applications. By simulating real-world attack scenarios, this testing methodology helps identify potential weaknesses that malicious actors could exploit. Beyond risk mitigation, penetration testing aids in improving overall security posture by evaluating the effectiveness of existing security measures and promoting continuous enhancements
Is Penetration Testing Expensive?
The cost of penetration testing can vary widely and is contingent on several factors, primarily dictated by the scope and complexity of what is being tested. Testing a simple web application may be less expensive compared to conducting a comprehensive assessment of an entire network infrastructure. Factors such as the size of the organization, the depth of the testing, and the specific methodologies employed all play a role in determining the cost. While some may perceive penetration testing as an upfront expense, it’s essential to view it as an investment in proactive security.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD PEN TESTING BE CARRIED OUT?
The frequency of your tests will depend on several factors, including the size of your business, the sensitivity of your data and any changes you make to your overall security strategy. A good starting point is once every few months for smaller businesses with limited liability or less sensitive information. Larger organisations are more likely to see benefits from carrying out pen testing every quarter, especially if they implement new systems or applications regularly and make changes to their network infrastructure. Remember that you do not need to wait for an annual review to conduct a penetration test. If you feel that there may be a security flaw in your organisation or network, it is always better to address this sooner rather than later.
WHO NEEDS PENETRATION TESTING?
If your company or organisation uses any IT infrastructure to conduct business operations, you’re susceptible to cyber-attacks and thus should have pen tests. More businesses are embracing remote working with staff accessing sensitive company data from multiple devices, increasing cyber security vulnerability. Businesses ranging from hospitals, financial institutions, and ecommerce platforms to retailers in various industries can all benefit from penetration testing services.
What is a PCI test?
A PCI test, or PCI compliance test, refers to a security assessment designed to evaluate and ensure adherence to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This standard sets requirements for organisations that handle credit card transactions to protect cardholder data and prevent security breaches. A PCI test typically involves assessing an organisation’s systems, processes, and controls to verify compliance with these standards.