Is a Pentest Right for You? A Guide for Non-Cybersecurity Buyers
Source: NSB Cyber
You’ve probably heard of penetration testing (or pentesting), but if you’re not a cybersecurity professional, it can feel confusing. Questions like, “Do I really need one?” or “When should I commission a pentest?” are common, and totally understandable.
Pentests are more than just a checkbox, they’re a core part of offensive security. They simulate real-world attacks, helping your team uncover vulnerabilities before threat actors do. Here’s when a pentest can provide real value.
Scenario 1: Launching a New Application
Imagine your team has developed a new mobile app that handles sensitive customer data or financial transactions. It’s innovative, exciting, and maybe even a potential game-changer for your business.
Naturally, you might ask: “Have we secured it properly?”
A pre-release pentest can help identify security gaps, giving your team time to remediate them before the app goes live, protecting your users and your reputation.
Pro Tip: Build pentesting into your project timeline and budget early to allow sufficient time to address any critical findings.
Scenario 2: Meeting Third-Party or Regulatory Expectations
Regulators (e.g. OAIC and ASIC), cyber insurers, and key business partners increasingly want proof of your cybersecurity posture. Many request evidence of a pentest or independent security assessment.
A pentest not only validates your security technically but also helps you check the boxes for stakeholders, ensuring compliance and enabling business opportunities.
Pro Tip: Clarify the exact requirements for any mandated pentest. A clear understanding of scope can save time and costs, sometimes dramatically.
Scenario 3: Following a Cyber Incident
If your organisation has experienced a cyber incident, the aftermath can feel uncertain. An incident response team will provide recommendations, but a pentest is a valuable follow-on exercise.
Think of it like reinforcing your home after a break-in: an independent expert can simulate an intruder, testing your security improvements and uncovering any remaining gaps.
Pro Tip: If the incident exposed specific vulnerabilities, consider a scoped pentest focused on those areas. A skilled pentester can often pinpoint weaknesses and suggest targeted mitigations.
Final Thoughts
Pentests are a key component of offensive security, helping you understand where your organisation might be vulnerable, and how to fix it. While it can seem daunting to commission a pentest, starting a conversation with experts is the best way to determine if, when, and how it makes sense for your business.
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