As we enter the era of AI, the traditional approach to vulnerability assessment is deemed insufficient

Initiating a vulnerability scan across network systems, web applications, mobile applications, and API endpoints represents an admirable initial step in evaluating the security posture regarding vulnerabilities.

As we enter the era of AI, the traditional approach to vulnerability assessment is deemed insufficient. The emergence of penetration testing and attack simulation (red team, purple team) has established new standards in the field. These methodologies not only facilitate a more extensive evaluation of the security posture but also yield a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the system’s vulnerabilities.

In the realm of penetration testing, a variety of testing types are recognized as industry standards:

– Internal or External Network Penetration Testing
– Mobile Application Penetration Testing
– API Penetration Testing
– Web Application Penetration Testing
– Cloud Penetration Testing
– Compliance Penetration Testing
– Red Team Penetration Testing
– Small Business Penetration Testing
– Penetration Testing for SaaS
– Penetration Testing as a Service

The cost of each type varies depending on factors such as engagement duration, scope, resources, and specific client requirements. Costs can range from $2,000 to several thousand dollars.

The expertise of penetration testers is a crucial factor in conducting a penetration test (pentest). While an automatic vulnerability scan can detect weaknesses, the penetration tester truly challenges the system by attempting to exploit these vulnerabilities, thereby determining the quality of the pentest.

Based on my extensive experience, during which I have been either fully or partially accountable for numerous penetration tests across various organizations, I have observed a tendency among companies to engage the same vendor consistently. However, after a recurring tenure of 2-3 years with a specific vendor, a sense of déjà vu emerges as the reporting format and tools remain static. Despite maintaining quality, I have questioned the strategic value of adopting a different perspective and embracing new tools for future pentests.

It is imperative to delineate between a vulnerability scan and a penetration test. Frequently, these terms are conflated, and disparate responses result. A vulnerability scan identifies weaknesses and offers remedial solutions, whereas a pentest endeavors to exploit vulnerabilities by deploying diverse tools.

With a legacy of over eight years, CyberSSS offers an expansive array of 75 vulnerability scanners for vulnerability assessments and extends penetration services, including a rescan period spanning 12 months.

Are you confident in your company’s current efforts? Are you actively conducting penetration testing? Your insights and commentary are encouraged and appreciated.

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