data breach - PATECCO GmbH

Top 3 IAM Challenges & How PATECCO Solves Them

Identity and Access Management can pose significant challenges for organizations across all industries. In our latest video, we break down the top three issues faced by many and showcase how PATECCO provides effective solutions to enhance security and streamline processes. IAM Challenge #1 – Weak Access Control Many businesses lack strict access policies, leading to: IAM Challenge #2 – Compliance Issues Regulatory frameworks like GDPR, ISO 27001, NIS-2, and HIPAA demand strict identity and access controls. Without clear audit trails and access policies, businesses risk: IAM Challenge #3 – Inefficient User Provisioning Without IAM automation, businesses face:

Implementing Secure Identity and Access Management for Remote Employees

Uncategorized / Von Ina Nikolova

The growing trend of remote work has reshaped how businesses operate and how employees access critical company resources. While remote work offers flexibility and increased productivity, it also brings significant security challenges. One of the most effective ways to safeguard corporate data and applications is through Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems. In this article, we’ll share how businesses can implement secure access for remote employees using IAM solutions and best practices. The Importance of IAM in Securing Remote Access Identity and Access Management encompasses the processes, policies, and technologies that control user identities and manage their access to organizational resources. It ensures that only authorized individuals can access sensitive systems and data, based on their identity and role within the company. With the growing number of remote employees, it has become crucial for businesses to adopt IAM solutions to reduce the risks associated with unauthorized access, data breaches, and compliance violations. IAM plays a critical role in securing remote access by authenticating users, ensuring that only legitimate individuals can access business systems. It also enforces role-based access control, which limits access to sensitive information based on the employee’s role within the organization. To further secure login processes, IAM replaces traditional password systems with more secure methods such as Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Additionally, IAM helps monitor who is accessing information and when, allowing businesses to detect and respond to any suspicious activity. Compliance with regulations, such as GDPR, HIPAA, is also facilitated by IAM systems. Key steps to implement secure access with IAM for remote employees To implement secure access with IAM for remote employees, organizations need to adopt a variety of strategies and technologies that enhance the overall security and ensure the proper control of remote access. This includes utilizing robust authentication methods and enforcing strict access policies based on employee roles. By integrating these practices, organizations can safeguard sensitive data and maintain a secure remote working environment: 1. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Passwords alone are no longer sufficient to protect sensitive company data, especially when employees are accessing resources from various locations and devices. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide more than just a password. MFA typically involves two or more of the following factors: By implementing MFA, businesses can greatly reduce the chances of unauthorized access due to stolen or weak passwords, which is a common vulnerability in remote work environments. 2. Implement Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) ensures that remote employees can only access the systems and data that are necessary for their job functions. By implementing RBAC, businesses can apply the principle of least privilege, meaning that employees are granted the minimum access required to perform their tasks. For example: A marketing employee may only need access to content management systems and social media platforms. An IT administrator may require access to servers, networks, and cloud infrastructure. By clearly defining roles and associated permissions, organizations can minimize the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive systems, particularly when working remotely. AI generated image 3. Enable Single Sign-On (SSO) Managing multiple passwords across different applications can be difficult for remote employees, leading to poor password hygiene or the reuse of weak passwords. Single Sign-On (SSO) simplifies this process by allowing employees to access multiple systems and applications with a single set of login credentials. SSO improves both security and user experience by: When remote workers can easily and securely access the tools they need, their productivity increases, and the likelihood of security breaches decreases. 4. Use Secure Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) When remote employees access corporate systems, it’s essential to ensure that their connections are encrypted and secure. One of the most common methods of achieving this is by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between the employee’s device and the company’s internal network, protecting data from being intercepted by third parties. Businesses should require remote workers to use a VPN when accessing sensitive systems or data, especially when working over unsecured public networks (e.g., coffee shop Wi-Fi). Additionally, IAM can help ensure that VPN access is only granted to authenticated users with the appropriate permissions. 5. Monitor Access and Activity in Real-Time For remote workers, monitoring access to sensitive data and systems is critical in detecting potential security risks. An IAM system should provide real-time logging and reporting of user activity, including: By monitoring these activities, businesses can identify unusual behavior (e.g., an employee accessing data they shouldn’t) and take prompt action to mitigate any security threats. Advanced IAM systems can also use machine learning to analyze user behavior and detect anomalies that may indicate a potential breach or compromise. 6. Provide Ongoing Security Training Despite the best security measures, human error remains one of the biggest vulnerabilities in remote work environments. Employees must be educated on the risks associated with remote work and the importance of following security protocols. Training should cover topics such as: By investing in security training for remote workers, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of security breaches due to negligence or lack of awareness. 7. Leverage Cloud-Based IAM Solutions Many businesses are shifting to cloud-based solutions to accommodate the growing remote workforce. Cloud-based IAM solutions offer flexibility and scalability, enabling companies to manage secure access for remote employees from anywhere. Cloud IAM solutions typically come with built-in security features, such as automated updates, disaster recovery, and integration with various cloud applications. They can also scale easily as the organization grows, ensuring that the same level of security is maintained regardless of the size of the remote workforce. As the trend of remote work continues to grow, businesses must adopt robust Identity and Access Management strategies to ensure the secure access of remote employees to critical systems and data. By implementing multi-factor authentication, role-based access control, single sign-on, VPNs, real-time monitoring, and cloud-based IAM solutions, organizations can protect sensitive information from potential threats and maintain a secure work environment, no matter where their employees are

Cloud Computing in the Digital Era – Trends, Innovations and Security

Uncategorized / Von Ina Nikolova

In the last few years cloud computing has completely transformed the way businesses and individuals access and manage data. As organizations increasingly migrate to the cloud, they are faced with a rapidly evolving environment characterized by emerging trends such as multi-cloud strategies, serverless architectures, and edge computing. These innovations pave the way for enhanced flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. However, with these advancements come significant security challenges that demand rigorous attention and proactive measures. As data breaches and cyber threats become more sophisticated, understanding the interplay between cloud trends, innovative technologies, and security measures is crucial. In this article we will present the latest trends in cloud computing, the innovations driving its growth, and the security considerations that businesses must address to protect their data. The rise and evolution of Cloud Computing In the simplest terms, cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services over the internet. These services include everything from data storage to advanced computational power, often offered through a pay-as-you-go model. Nowadays the cloud is an essential part of modern IT infrastructure, providing businesses with more efficient and flexible ways to manage their workloads, access applications, and scale operations. As cloud adoption continues to increase, a growing number of organizations are shifting their operations away from traditional on-premise infrastructure to cloud-based solutions. This change has been further accelerated by the growing demand for remote work solutions, the rise of digital transformation initiatives, and the need for businesses to become more agile and cost-effective. KI generated image Cloud Computing Trends Cloud computing is rapidly evolving, with several emerging trends shaping the way businesses operate and leverage technology. These trends reflect the growing need for flexibility, efficiency, and advanced capabilities in managing data and applications. From hybrid and multi-cloud environments to the integration of AI and edge computing, organizations are embracing innovative solutions to enhance performance and meet the demands of the digital age. Here’s a closer look at the key trends driving the future of cloud computing. Hybrid cloud, which integrates both private and public clouds, is becoming a popular strategy for businesses looking to balance security and flexibility. Additionally, multi-cloud environments — using multiple cloud service providers — allow businesses to avoid vendor lock-in and reduce downtime risks by distributing workloads across different clouds. This trend gives organizations more control over their resources and allows for greater flexibility in managing workloads. Cloud platforms are increasingly integrating Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning tools to enable businesses to analyze large datasets and gain valuable insights. With cloud-based AI and ML, businesses can leverage advanced technologies like predictive analytics, natural language processing, and computer vision without investing in expensive hardware or specialized resources. Cloud-native development is a growing trend where businesses build and run applications designed specifically for the cloud. This architecture allows businesses to take full advantage of cloud scalability, performance, and agility. Containers and microservices are fundamental to cloud-native applications, enabling organizations to build applications that are highly portable, efficient, and resilient. Innovations Driving Cloud Computing Innovations in cloud computing are continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, enabling businesses to unlock new opportunities and enhance their operations. As emerging technologies like quantum computing, blockchain, and cloud automation gain traction, they are transforming the way organizations build, deploy, and manage applications. These innovations are not only improving efficiency and scalability but also paving the way for more secure, sustainable, and robust cloud solutions. Let’s review some of the key innovations driving the future of cloud computing: Blockchain, a decentralized and secure ledger system, is being integrated with cloud computing to provide enhanced transparency and trust. Blockchain-based cloud services are beginning to emerge, offering businesses a more secure way to store and share data. Cloud providers are looking to implement blockchain technology for secure transactions, supply chain management, and ensuring data integrity. The integration of cloud automation tools and DevOps practices is streamlining the development, deployment, and maintenance of cloud-based applications. With automation, businesses can speed up their release cycles and improve efficiency. DevOps, which emphasizes collaboration between development and operations teams, allows for faster delivery of applications and services while maintaining high-quality standards. As environmental concerns become more pressing, cloud providers are focusing on sustainability. Data centers, which consume significant amounts of energy, are transitioning to renewable energy sources, and cloud platforms are working on improving energy efficiency. Many cloud companies are now offering solutions aimed at reducing carbon footprints, making it easier for businesses to go green without sacrificing performance. Cloud Security: Challenges and Solutions Despite the many benefits of cloud computing, security remains one of the most significant challenges. The more we rely on cloud services, the more critical it becomes to ensure data protection and privacy. Below are some of the top security concerns, along with solutions to mitigate these risks. Data breaches and the risk of data loss are major concerns for businesses adopting the cloud. Malicious actors may target cloud services to steal sensitive information, or human error could lead to the accidental loss of critical data. To mitigate these risks, businesses should implement robust encryption techniques for both data at rest and data in transit. Additionally, strong access control policies and Multi-Factor Authentication can help prevent unauthorized access. Many industries, such as healthcare, finance, and government, must comply with strict regulatory requirements when it comes to data protection. Cloud providers must ensure they meet these regulatory standards, and businesses should choose cloud services that are compliant with relevant laws and regulations, such as GDPR and HIPAA. Insider threats, where employees or trusted individuals abuse their access to cloud systems, are a growing concern. Limiting access based on the principle of least privilege and continuously monitoring user activity can help reduce the risk of insider threats. Furthermore, a strong organizational security culture that emphasizes awareness and training is key to protecting cloud-based data. KI generated image Cloud computing continues to transform industries by offering innovative solutions, improving operational efficiency, and fostering agility. As trends like hybrid and multi-cloud adoption, edge computing, and

Strengthening Identity and Access Management in Insurance Companies: Navigating VAIT Compliance

Uncategorized / Von Ina Nikolova

In an era where digital transformation is reshaping the insurance industry, the significance of robust Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems cannot be overstated. Insurance companies are increasingly reliant on vast amounts of sensitive data, necessitating stringent security measures to protect against cyber threats and unauthorized access. The introduction of the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority’s (BaFin) Requirements for IT in Insurance Undertakings (VAIT) has added a layer of regulatory compliance that insurance companies must navigate diligently. VAIT provides a comprehensive framework aimed at ensuring the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of IT systems and data within the insurance sector. It underscores the critical need for insurance companies to implement effective IAM strategies to manage and control access to their information systems. This article delves into the six central components of authorization management for insurance companies in the context of VAIT, exploring how these elements contribute to a robust security posture and regulatory adherence. These components include access control policies, role-based access control, recertification, SoD, IAM Tools and PAM. Understanding and implementing these solutions effectively is vital for insurance companies to protect their digital assets and ensure they meet VAIT’s stringent requirements. Essential Components of Authorization Management for Insurance Companies The implementation of the special requirements for insurance companies in the context of VAIT demands a targeted identification of the relevant components of authorisation management. Central compliance principles – such as the minimum authority principle – must always be taken into account when designing successful authorisation management. The components described below are crucial for full compliance with VAIT. 1. Access Control Policies Access control policies are the foundation of authorization management. These policies define who has access to what resources within an organization, based on their role and responsibilities. Key aspects include: To be VAIT compliant, insurance companies must establish and enforce these policies to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. 2. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) is another fundamental component of authorization management for insurance companies, essential for compliance with VAIT. RBAC streamlines the assignment of access rights by categorizing employees into roles based on their job functions and responsibilities, ensuring that each role has predefined access permissions. This approach simplifies access management, enhances security, and ensures that employees only have access to the information necessary for their roles. By implementing RBAC, insurance companies can effectively enforce the principle of least privilege, reduce the risk of unauthorized access, and maintain a clear audit trail of access permissions, all of which are critical for VAIT compliance. 3. Recertification Recertification involves the periodic review and validation of users‘ access rights to ensure they remain appropriate and necessary. This process is essential for maintaining compliance, enhancing security, and minimizing the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data. 4. Segregation of Duties (SoD) Segregation of Duties (SoD) is a core component of authorization management for insurance companies, especially under VAIT. SoD involves dividing tasks and access privileges among multiple individuals to prevent any single person from having control over all aspects of a critical process, thereby reducing the risk of fraud and errors. This practice ensures that no single employee can execute and authorize transactions independently, which enhances internal controls and mitigates the potential for conflicts of interest. Implementing SoD effectively helps insurance companies comply with VAIT by ensuring robust access controls and accountability, thereby safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining operational integrity. 5. Identity and Access Management Tools Identity and Access Management (IAM) tools facilitate the automation and enforcement of access control policies, streamline the processes of user provisioning and de-provisioning, and support robust authentication mechanisms like multi-factor authentication (MFA). By integrating IAM tools, insurance companies can efficiently manage and monitor access rights, ensure compliance with regulatory mandates, and enhance overall security. IAM tools also provide detailed audit logs and reporting capabilities, enabling continuous oversight and regular audits required by VAIT, thereby safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining operational integrity. 6. Privileged Access Management Privileged Access Management (PAM) ensures the security and oversight of highly sensitive accounts with elevated access privileges. PAM solutions control, monitor, and audit the activities of privileged users, who have access to critical systems and data, thereby mitigating the risk of insider threats and unauthorized access. Implementing PAM helps insurance companies enforce the principle of least privilege, providing granular access controls and ensuring that privileged access is granted only when necessary and appropriately monitored. By leveraging PAM, insurance companies can enhance their security posture, comply with stringent regulatory requirements, and protect their most sensitive information and systems. Challenges and Best Practices Implementing an effective IAM strategy in compliance with VAIT poses several challenges, including the complexity of integrating IAM solutions with existing systems, managing the lifecycle of identities, and ensuring continuous monitoring and adaptation to evolving threats. However, adopting best practices such as leveraging advanced technologies (AI for behavioral analytics), automating IAM processes, and engaging in continuous improvement can help insurance companies overcome these challenges. In conclusion, meeting the special regulatory requirements for IAM under VAIT is essential for insurance companies to protect their IT infrastructure and data assets. By implementing robust IAM policies and systems, insurance companies can not only achieve regulatory compliance, but also enhance their overall cybersecurity posture, safeguarding their operations and customer trust in an increasingly digital world.

PKI strategy as an essential foundation for a secure business environment

Uncategorized / Von Ina Nikolova

In today’s digital world, securing business environments against an ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats is more critical than ever. A robust Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) strategy stands as an essential foundation for achieving this security. PKI provides a framework for encrypting data, authenticating users, and ensuring the integrity of digital transactions, making it indispensable for businesses aiming to protect sensitive information and maintain trust with their stakeholders. As companies increasingly rely on digital interactions and remote operations, the strategic implementation of PKI not only fortifies their defenses, but also enhances overall operational resilience and compliance with regulatory standards. It is no wonder that business applications in the IoT sector are increasingly reliant on PKI technologies to ensure a high level of security. This article considers the importance of an effective PKI implementation and its pivotal role in creating a secure business environment. Function of the certification authorities (CAs) Certification Authorities (CAs) play a crucial role in the realm of digital security by acting as trusted entities that issue and manage digital certificates. These certificates serve as electronic credentials that verify the identities of individuals, organizations, and devices, facilitating secure communications and transactions over the internet. The primary functions of CAs include: Through these functions, Certification Authorities underpin the security of digital interactions, providing the assurance needed for safe and trustworthy exchanges of information online. Risks of inadequate PKI implementation The implementation of encryption requires both time and money. It requires the IT team to define which communications or traffic should be encrypted and what impact this will have on the systems and users that utilise them. For example, some organisations should also introduce encryption policies for IoT devices connected to their network. If a PKI strategy is not properly implemented or executed, not only can communication fail, but there are significant risks involved. For example, digital failures, which are generally errors in the network or connected devices, can result in messages not being forwarded. In this case, it is unlikely that data has been intercepted by hackers. However, an unsecured digital identity can also pose a more serious problem. This is the case when someone with an expired certificate impersonates someone else. Similarly, failed audits or compromised certificate authorities can lead to data leaks. To prevent this, it is crucial that a specific team is given responsibility for managing the PKI infrastructure, for example the IT security team or the network team. Possible consequences of improper management Proper PKI implementation and key management are essential for smooth and secure data transfer. Some of the consequences of an ineffective PKI implementation are outlined below: Increasing importance of PKIs In an era where digital interactions underpin nearly every facet of our personal and professional lives, the significance of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) cannot be overstated. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, the demand for robust security measures becomes paramount. PKI stands out as a critical component in safeguarding data integrity, authenticity, and confidentiality. Its ability to provide secure communications, authenticate users, and manage digital certificates makes it indispensable in various sectors, from finance and healthcare to government and e-commerce. Moreover, the rise of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and blockchain further amplifies the necessity for reliable PKI solutions. These technologies, while offering immense benefits, also introduce new vulnerabilities that PKI is uniquely equipped to address. As organizations and individuals continue to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape, investing in and enhancing PKI capabilities will be essential in maintaining trust and security. In summary, PKI’s role in ensuring secure digital communications and transactions is becoming increasingly vital. As cyber threats evolve, so must our approach to cybersecurity. By embracing and advancing PKI, we can build a more secure digital future, where privacy and trust are foundational elements of our online interactions.

IBM Security Guardium – Your Ultimate Solution for Database Security and Threat Protection

Uncategorized / Von Ina Nikolova

In the current digital era, where data breaches and cyber threats are on the rise, organizations are increasingly recognizing the critical importance of robust database security solutions. IBM Security Guardium stands out as a leading solution designed to protect sensitive data and mitigate risks associated with unauthorized access and malicious attacks. With its comprehensive suite of features, Guardium offers real-time monitoring, advanced threat detection, and proactive compliance management, enabling businesses to safeguard their databases effectively. By integrating automation and intelligent analytics, IBM Security Guardium provides organizations with unparalleled visibility and control over their data environments. This article sets the stage for exploring how Guardium serves as an essential ally in the quest for achieving data security, compliance, and ultimately, business resilience in the face of evolving threats. What is IBM Security Guardium? IBM Security Guardium is a leading security software specifically designed to protect sensitive data across multiple environments. At a time when data leaks and security breaches are becoming increasingly common, Guardium provides a robust solution to ensure data integrity while meeting compliance requirements. The platform covers a wide range of functions, including real-time monitoring of data activity, analysis and auditing of access patterns and prevention of unauthorised data access. These capabilities make Guardium an indispensable tool for organisations that want to effectively protect their critical data assets. IBM Security Guardium is also characterised by its high level of adaptability and integration into existing IT infrastructures. It supports a variety of data platforms, including databases, big data environments and cloud storage solutions. This flexibility allows organisations to seamlessly integrate Guardium into their security strategy and gain a holistic view of their data protection practices. With Guardium, companies can not only protect their data, but also centralise and optimise their security efforts, resulting in stronger data integrity and improved business operations. How IBM Security Guardium protects against data breaches? IBM Security Guardium provides excellent protection against data breaches through a combination of advanced technology and proactive security measures. The solution provides a number of features which are particularly important at a time when data protection requirements are constantly growing and the consequences of security breaches are becoming increasingly serious. Guardium monitors all data access activities in real-time, keeping track of who accessed what data, when, and from where. It uses behavior analytics to identify unusual access patterns that could indicate malicious activity or insider threats. Furthermore, Guardium generates alerts for suspicious activities and can also block certain activities if they match predefined risk criteria, helping prevent unauthorized data access before a breach occurs. Guardium enforces security policies that restrict access based on user roles, location, time, and other factors. This ensures only authorized users have access to sensitive data. It helps implement least-privilege access by segmenting data and only allowing specific roles or users to access certain data types. Guardium can apply data masking to sensitive fields, so even if unauthorized access is attempted, the real data is not visible. Guardium scans databases for known vulnerabilities and configuration issues that could expose sensitive data. It assesses each vulnerability’s risk level and provides recommendations for patching or mitigating them. Guardium can also provide guidance on hardening database configurations to minimize security gaps. Guardium uses machine learning and behavioral analysis to build a baseline of typical user activity, allowing it to detect unusual behavior, such as excessive data downloads or access during off-hours. By integrating with IBM’s threat intelligence sources, Guardium can update its threat models to protect against the latest tactics, techniques, and procedures used by attackers. Guardium maintains audit logs of all data access and modification activities, which helps organizations meet regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS). Guardium provides pre-built and customizable reports for various regulations, making it easier for organizations to demonstrate compliance. By monitoring and enforcing data access policies, Guardium supports data governance efforts that help minimize data exposure risks. Future Trends in Data Security and the Role of Security Guardium As organisations increasingly rely on digital data, emerging trends in data security highlight the importance of robust protection mechanisms like Security Guardium. This solution not only aids in the identification of vulnerabilities, but also enhances compliance with regulatory standards, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorised access. With the rise of advanced persistent threats and sophisticated cyberattacks, Security Guardium’s proactive monitoring and real-time alerts ensure that potential breaches are addressed before they escalate. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into its framework further empowers organisations to adapt to evolving threats, enabling them to anticipate risks rather than merely react. As remote work becomes more prevalent, the need for comprehensive data governance strategies is paramount; Security Guardium plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of information across diverse environments. In this rapidly changing landscape, embracing such advanced security solutions is not just beneficial, it is imperative for sustaining trust and resilience in data management practices.

Why Penetration Test is Important in Cybersecurity and How Does it Work

Uncategorized / Von Ina Nikolova

It feels like every day starts with a new headline about the latest cyber attack. Hackers are stealing millions of records and billions of euros with alarming regularity. The key to combating these machinations is to continuously conduct thorough penetration tests. Penetration testing is used to test your security before an attacker does. Penetration testing tools simulate real-world attack scenarios to uncover and exploit security vulnerabilities that could lead to records being stolen or credentials, intellectual property, personal data, card data or private protected health information being compromised, data ransomware being extorted or other results harmful to business. By exploiting security vulnerabilities, penetration testing helps you decide how best to prevent cyberattacks in the future and protect your critical business data against them. What are the phases of penetration testing? There are five main phases to go through in any typical penetration test: 1. Target exploration and information gathering. Before the penetration testing team can take action, it must gather information about the likely target. This phase is important for creating an attack plan and serves as a deployment area for the entire mission. 2. Scanning After the reconnaissance phase, a series of scans of the target are conducted to decipher how the target’s security systems react to different attack attempts. Discovering vulnerabilities, open ports and other weaknesses within a network’s infrastructure can determine how pen testers proceed with the planned attack. 3. Gain access Once the data is collected, penetration testers use widely used web application attacks such as SQL injection and cross-site scripting to exploit existing vulnerabilities. Now that they have gained access, the testers attempt to mimic the scope of potential damage that could result from a malicious attack. 4. Gaining access The main objective of this phase is to maintain a constant presence within the target environment. As time progresses, more and more data is collected about the exploited system, allowing the testers to mimic complex and persistent threats. 5. Covering traces/analysis Finally, once the mission is complete, all traces of the attack must be erased to ensure anonymity. Log events, scripts and other executables that could be discovered by the target should be completely untraceable. A comprehensive report is given to the client with a detailed analysis of the entire mission to highlight key vulnerabilities, gaps, potential impact of an intrusion, and a variety of other important components of the security program. How does a penetration test work? Penetration testing can either be done internally by your own professionals using pen testing tools, or you can hire an external penetration testing vendor to do it for you. A penetration test begins with the security professional taking an inventory of the target network to find vulnerable systems and/or accounts. This involves scanning every system on the network for open ports running services. It is extremely rare that all services on a network are correctly configured, properly password protected and fully patched. Once the penetration tester has properly understood the network and the vulnerabilities present, a penetration testing tool is used to exploit a vulnerability to gain uninvited access. However, security experts do not only examine systems. Often, pen testers also direct their attacks at the users in a network by sending phishing e-mails or trying to manipulate target persons in their favour by telephone or on the internet/intranet (pre-text calling or social engineering). How do you test the risk posed by your own users? Your users are an additional risk factor. Attacks on a network via human error or compromised credentials are not new. If the constant cyberattacks and data theft cases have taught us anything, it is that the easiest way for a hacker to penetrate a network and steal data or money is through network users. Compromised credentials are the most common attack vector among all reported data breaches, as the Verizon Data Breach Report shows year after year. Part of the job of a penetration test is to address security threats caused by user error. A pen tester will attempt to guess passwords from found accounts via a brute force attack to gain access to systems and applications. Although compromising a device may result in a security breach, in a real-world scenario, an attacker will typically use lateral movement to ultimately gain access to a critical asset. Simulating phishing attacks is another common way to test the security of your network users. Phishing attacks use personalised communication methods to persuade the target to do something that is not in their best interest. For example, a phishing attack might convince a user that it is time for a „mandatory password reset“ and therefore to click on an embedded email link. Whether clicking on the malicious link drops malware or simply opens the door for attackers to steal credentials for future use: A phishing attack is one of the easiest ways to exploit network users. If you want to test your users‘ vigilance against phishing attacks, make sure the penetration testing tool you use has these capabilities. What is the importance of penetration testing for a company? A penetration test is a crucial component for network security. Through these tests, a company can identify: Through penetration testing, security professionals can effectively identify and test security measures in multi-layered network architectures, custom applications, web services and other IT components. Penetration testing tools and services help you quickly gain insight into the highest risk areas so you can effectively plan budgets and projects for your security. Thorough testing of an organisation’s entire IT infrastructure is essential to take the necessary precautions to protect critical data against hacking while improving IT response time in the event of an attack.