5 Common Myths About Penetration Testing (and Why They’re Wrong)

14 October 2024
Penetration Testing

Penetration testing, often referred to as “pen testing,” is a crucial component of a robust cybersecurity strategy. However, many businesses shy away from investing in penetration testing due to widespread misconceptions. In this blog, we will address and debunk five common myths about penetration testing and explain why they are inaccurate.

Myth 1: “Penetration Testing is Too Expensive”

One of the most common myths is that penetration testing is prohibitively expensive. While there is a cost associated with hiring experts to perform a thorough test, the cost of a successful cyberattack can be much higher. According to IBM’s 2023 Cost of a Data Breach Report, the average data breach costs businesses over $4 million. Compared to this, the investment in penetration testing, which can prevent such breaches by identifying vulnerabilities they are exploited, is far more economical.

Myth 2: “Penetration Testing Will Disrupt My Business Operations”

Many believe that penetration testing will disrupt daily business operations or cause system downtime. However, penetration tests are carefully planned to avoid operational interruptions. A reputable cybersecurity firm will work with your team to schedule tests during low-traffic times or off-hours. In addition, professional testers will use controlled methods to ensure that the test doesn’t compromise your systems.

Myth 3: “Penetration Testing is Only for Large Enterprises”

There’s a misconception that only large corporations need penetration testing. In reality, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are just as vulnerable to cyberattacks, if not more so. In fact, 43% of cyberattacks target SMBs, according to a report by Verizon. These businesses often lack the resources for robust cybersecurity measures, making penetration testing even more critical in identifying weaknesses that hackers might exploit.

Myth 4: “We Use Vulnerability Scanners, So We Don’t Need Penetration Testing”

While vulnerability scanning is an important aspect of cybersecurity, it is not the same as penetration testing. Scanners identify known vulnerabilities, but penetration testing goes a step further by actively attempting to exploit those vulnerabilities, simulating a real-world attack. This hands-on approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of how your defences would hold up against an actual cybercriminal.

Myth 5: “We’ve Already Passed a Penetration Test, So We’re Safe”

Cybersecurity is not a one-time event and passing one penetration test does not mean you’re immune to future threats. Cyber threats evolve constantly, and new vulnerabilities can emerge as systems and software are updated. Regular penetration testing is necessary to ensure that your security remains up-to-date and effective. For example, a company that passed a test six months ago may now be vulnerable due to newly discovered exploits or changes to its IT infrastructure.

Conclusion

Penetration testing is an essential investment for businesses of all sizes, and the myths surrounding it can lead to dangerous gaps in security. By understanding the realities of penetration testing, companies can make informed decisions to protect their digital assets and mitigate cyber risks effectively.

Archway Securities can undertake penetration testing of your systems. We can offer you one complementary pen test on a website or web application to show our capabilities. Please speak to us to find out more.

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