In a world dominated by digital tools, companies and organizations need security measures that protect both the integrity of their networks and IT systems, as well as the information they hold. Testing the effectiveness of these protocols is precisely the role of the pentesting.
What is pentesting?
Pentesting (penetration testing) is the process of launching simulated cyberattacks against an IT infrastructure to identify potential vulnerabilities, in order to address them and prevent real attacks. This practice allows organizations to understand the risks their systems face, assess the effectiveness of their defenses, and evaluate the impact of identified weaknesses.
To conduct a penetration test, the team of professionals responsible (known as pentesters)first gathers as much information as possible about the organization and its systems. Once potential weaknesses are identified, they launch a series of attacks to exploit them and gain access to the system. Additionally, the threat is sustained over time to achieve the maximum possible access, just as in a real hacking attempt.
Depending on the amount of information available, there are three types of pentesting:
- Black box: the company does not provide any information about the system, so the pentesters act from scratch, just like external attackers would.
- White box:the team has access to all details (source code, credentials, IP addresses, etc.). The goal is to simulate an attack from within the organization.
- Gray box: only certain information is provided so that the pentesters act like someone with limited permissions.
Pentesting in access control
Access control systems are a critical point in cybersecurity because if compromised, they allow unauthorized individuals physical entry to restricted areas. Penetration tests can vary depending on each device and the company’s needs but generally include the following aspects:
Hardware and software pentesting
This involves identifying vulnerabilities in networks, servers, software, and physical IT devices such as computers and card readers.
Social engineering pentesting
This technique seeks security flaws within the organization’s own staff. It employs methods of social engineering targeting employees to trick them into granting system access or revealing confidential information.
Physical pentesting
In this case, the pentesting team attempts to gain physical access to the premises using various strategies, including:
- Lockpicking: attempting to manipulate door and window locking mechanisms to test their resistance.
- RFID device cloning: copying company RFID cards or other radio frequency identification devices to test the possibility of gaining access with the fakes.
- Tailgating: to gain entry to the premises, this involves tricking authorized personnel by pretending to have the proper access or by following closely behind someone who is entering.
Access control systems Grupo SPEC’s access control systems include all the necessary security measures to protect your company’s assets. If you need more information, please contact our customer service team.
