User Penetration Testing (also known as an internal pen test) is a simulated cyber attack on a computer network from within the organization. The goal is to identify and exploit vulnerabilities that a malicious insider (like a disgruntled employee) or an external attacker who has gained access to the network could exploit.
How it works:
- Planning: The scope of the test is defined, including the systems to be targeted and the level of access the “attacker” will have.
- Reconnaissance: The tester gathers information about the target network, such as user accounts, network topology, and software versions.
- Vulnerability Assessment: The tester uses various tools and techniques to identify vulnerabilities in the target systems.
- Exploitation: The tester attempts to exploit the identified vulnerabilities to gain access to sensitive data or systems.
- Post-Exploitation: If successful, the tester explores the extent of the compromise and determines the potential impact of the attack.
- Reporting: The tester provides a detailed report on the findings, including recommendations for remediation.
Scenarios:
Internal pen tests typically focus on the following scenarios:
- Malicious Insider: A disgruntled employee who wants to steal data or disrupt operations.
- External Attacker with Internal Access: An attacker who has gained access to the network through phishing, social engineering, or other means.
- Accidental Insider Threat: An employee who unknowingly clicks on a malicious link or opens a compromised attachment.
Benefits:
- Identifies Vulnerabilities: Helps organizations identify and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by attackers.
- Improves Security Posture: Strengthens an organization’s overall security posture by identifying weaknesses in internal controls and processes.
- Demonstrates Compliance: Can help organizations demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements, such as PCI DSS or HIPAA.
Types of Internal Pen Tests:
- Black Box: The tester has no prior knowledge of the target network.
- Grey Box: The tester has some limited knowledge of the target network.
- White Box: The tester has full knowledge of the target network.