The ongoing digital transformation processes in companies are characterized by increasingly frequent and sophisticated cyber threats. 

This scenario places Italian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) under growing pressure to protect their data and IT systems, that are more and more interconnected causing an increasing of the attack surface.

Among the most effective tools for assessing security levels and preventing external attacks, the Penetration Test stands out. 

But what exactly is it, how does it work, and why is it crucial for your business? Let’s explore these aspects together.

What is a Penetration Test?

A Penetration Test, or penetration testing, is a security assessment process for an IT system or network that simulates an attack. 

The goal is to identify and exploit potential vulnerabilities, such as incorrect configurations, flaws in source code, or inappropriate permissions.

In other words, it is a controlled attempt to “break” the system to identify weak points that could be exploited by malicious actors. 

The primary difference compared to other security tools, such as Vulnerability Assessments, is that the Penetration Test does not just identify vulnerabilities: it actively tries to exploit them, just like a real hacker would.

This approach provides a more concrete and in-depth view of the threats a company is exposed to, showing not only where the weaknesses are, but also what the real impact of an attack might be.

How does a Penetration Test work and how is it Performed?

The Penetration Test process typically unfolds in several stages, each requiring specific attention. Below are the main steps:

• Information gathering: this phase involves collecting data on all the company’s assets. It investigates publicly available details, such as IP addresses, running services, and software in use. This operation is similar to what a hacker would do during the “reconnaissance” phase before launching an attack.

• Vulnerability scanning: using automated and manual tools, the security expert (penetration tester) looks for known vulnerabilities and potential entry points. This step is comparable to what happens in a Vulnerability Assessment, but in a Penetration Test, the goal is to go deeper: verifying the exploitability of these vulnerabilities.

• Exploitation attempts: at this stage, the tester attempts to exploit the identified vulnerabilities to see if it’s possible to access the system or sensitive data. This phase requires advanced technical skills and a deep understanding of attack methodologies. Exploits may involve data manipulation, unauthorized access to confidential files, or privilege escalation.

• Analysis and final report: once the penetration attempts are concluded, the penetration tester drafts a detailed report that includes the vulnerabilities found, the methods used to exploit them, and the potential impact of a successful attack. Recommendations are also provided for mitigating and correcting the issues encountered.

Why is it important to conduct a Penetration Test?

The Penetration Test is a fundamental weapon in a company’s cybersecurity arsenal, especially for SMEs. But why should a company invest in such a service?

• Identify and resolve vulnerabilities before they are exploited: waiting to be hit by an attack is not a viable option. A Penetration Test allows you to discover flaws before they become a real problem, thus protecting your company from economic losses, reputational damage, and potential penalties.

• Simulate a real attack: knowing your weaknesses is essential, but understanding their practical impact is even more critical. The Penetration Test doesn’t just point out weaknesses; it shows you exactly what could happen if a hacker tried to exploit them.

• Enhance the awareness of the IT team: internal IT experts do not always have the opportunity to evaluate their work from an external perspective. A Penetration Test offers an external and impartial view, testing the existing defenses and strategies already in place.

• Support business growth and innovation: in a context of growth or digital transformation, it’s crucial that security evolves along with technological changes. A Penetration Test helps SMEs strengthen their security during periods of expansion.

Penetration Test and Regulatory Compliance

Another critical aspect to consider is the role of the Penetration Test in regulatory compliance. In Italy, many laws and regulations impose strict standards for data protection, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Legislative Decree 231/2001.

The GDPR requires companies to implement appropriate security measures to protect sensitive data. The Penetration Test is one of the most effective tools for demonstrating a proactive approach to security.

Moreover, for companies seeking security certifications, such as ISO/IEC 27001, conducting periodic Penetration Tests is a fundamental prerequisite for proving compliance with international standards.

CyberTrust 365’s Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing Service

CyberTrust 365 offers a VA/PT (Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Test) service with the aim of elevating the security level of SMEs through an initial phase of analysis and scanning of present and potential vulnerabilities within the IT infrastructure, followed by a subsequent phase of simulating a real attack.

Discover VA/PT service>>