PENETRATION TESTING
Penetration testing constitutes an IT exercise wherein a cybersecurity expert endeavors to discover and exploit potential vulnerabilities within a computer system. This simulated attack serves to pinpoint weaknesses in a system’s defense, enabling organizations to understand how hackers might gain unauthorized access or engage in malicious activities that pose a risk of breach or data theft.
The penetration testing process involves five fundamental steps, namely:
- Reconnaissance:
This initial phase involves gathering preliminary data on the target, aiding in the planning of the cyber attack. It encompasses defining the test’s scope and selecting appropriate testing methods. - Scanning:
In this stage, the attacker interacts with the target to identify vulnerabilities. Probes are sent to the target, and the attacker records the responses to various inputs. - Gaining Access:
Phase three involves the hacker taking control of one or more network devices, using them to launch attacks or extract data. - Maintaining Access:
This step allows the attacker to continue gathering data by remaining within the target environment. - Covering Tracks:
The final phase requires the attacker to eliminate all traces of their presence, aiming to restore the computer system to a state of non-recognition by network administrators.
Penetration testing methods are categorized into several main types:
- External Testing:
Targets assets visible on the web, such as a company’s email or website. - Internal Testing:
Involves gaining access to an application behind a firewall. - Blind Testing:
The hacker is provided only with the name of the targeted organization. - Double-Blind Testing:
Security personnel have no prior knowledge of the simulated attack. - Targeted Testing:
In this collaborative approach, both the hacker and security personnel work together, providing mutual feedback throughout the testing process.