penetration testing in cyber security

Financial institutions and suppliers of vital infrastructure are facing increasing pressure to strengthen their cyber resilience in the face of growing cyberattacks. In the European Union, where the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) has become a cornerstone of financial cybersecurity, the regulatory landscape is also becoming more stringent. The use of Threat-led Penetration Testing (TLPT) is arguably the most crucial component of achieving and maintaining DORA compliance. Today, Qualysec Technologies will explain Threat-led Penetration Testing (TLPT), its importance in the current cyber era, and how it is central to DORA compliance. We will also go over how companies can strategically use TLPT to improve security posture and meet regulatory requirements. What is Threat-led Penetration Testing? Threat-led Penetration Testing is a type of thorough security testing that replicates tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) of cyber adversaries. Unlike regular penetration testing, which often follows a checklist or scope, Threat-led Penetration Testing is based on intelligence and tailored to the threat universe and risk profile of the organization. The goal of Threat-led Penetration Testing is to imitate an authentic cyberattack so your organization can evaluate the detection, response, and recovery capabilities of an advanced persistent threat (APT). In truth, Threat-led Penetration Testing is not only a technical exercise but a test of your organization’s resilience. This type of testing can also be known as: The Importance of Threat-led Penetration Testing in Cybersecurity In a world with rapidly evolving digital threats, organizations are now faced with a continuum of threats to their security that is becoming more complex. In response to this growing problem, traditional security assessments have become ineffective against advanced, persistent threats. Threat-led penetration testing has undoubtedly become another key part of the solution. Here are the three reasons why it is important in cybersecurity programs – Simulates Real-World Threat Scenarios Identifies Critical Weaknesses Before They Are Exploited Improves Incident Response Readiness Aligns Cybersecurity with Business Risk Strengthens Regulatory Compliance Protects Brand Reputation and Customer Trust Enhances Teamwork and Collaboration Assists Continuous Improvement Threat-led Penetration Testing Frameworks within DORA Organizations preparing for DORA compliance are expected to adopt these frameworks or align their TLPT with these frameworks. DORA doesn’t set up a new TLPT framework from scratch. Instead, it draws on the existing frameworks, such as – Key Phases of Threat-led Penetration Testing Threat-led Penetration Testing is conducted effective methodology, statistically aligned with capture, basic agreements, and accountable frameworks like TIBER-EU (Threat Intelligence – Based Ethical Red Teaming) or CBEST, and every part of the methodology is methodically structured to test a real cyberattack scenario. Hence, it is a reflection of an organization’s known and unknown security posture. Scoping & Planning Threat Intelligence Gathering Developing Threat Scenarios Red Team Engagement Detection & Response Review Reporting & Remediation The report will detail the information found on noting: The report will contain recommendations for remediation that identify actionable steps, based on criticality and business risk implications. The red team engagement should provide valuable information to enable an organization to strengthen its security posture, based on real test experiences. Validation & re-testing TLPT vs Traditional Penetration Testing Feature Traditional Pen Testing Threat-led Penetration Testing Scope Predefined, general Intelligence-led, adaptive Method Checklists, tools Adversary simulation Target Technical vulnerabilities End-to-end security posture Frequency Annual/Biannual Risk-based, strategic Compliance Fit Generic standards Regulatory-grade (e.g., DORA, TIBER-EU) How Qualysec Helps You Achieve TLPT and DORA Compliance At Qualysec Technologies, we focus on assisting financial services and critical infrastructure organizations with Threat-led Penetration Testing (TLPT) that adheres to DORA and other global regulations. By working with Qualysec, not only do you become DORA compliant, but you also significantly improve your cybersecurity penetration testing readiness against real-world threats. Our TLPT Services Include – FAQs 1. What is the difference between threat-led and traditional penetration testing? Standard penetration tests usually identify vulnerabilities within a fixed boundary. However, threat-led penetration tests are a legitimate emulation of an adversary-style attack in a definition of scope. It uses real threat intelligence that targets the people, processes and technology of a whole organization.  2. Is threat-led penetration testing mandatory under DORA? Yes, DORA recommends or mandates TLPT for critical financial institutions for advanced resilience testing. Organizations must conduct TLPT regularly following frameworks such as TIBER-EU or CBEST.  3. How often should threat-led penetration tests be conducted? The frequency for TLPT will depend on the organization’s risk profile and regulatory requirements. In general, high-impact or complex entities will be expected to conduct TLPT every 1-2 years with a substantial change to either their exploitation infrastructure or threat landscape, which may require a revision to risk profile and assessment.  4. Which frameworks are accepted under DORA for TLPT?  DORA licensing supports TLPT to engage to established frameworks such as TIBER-EU, CBEST or iCAST. TLPT with frameworks allows a standardized methodology for assessing against and being endorsed by regulators. 5. Are SMEs able to conduct threat-led penetration testing? Yes, SMEs can conduct TLPT although it may be less comprehensive, however scaled testing for SMEs will reveal major flaws and help prepare them to think about compliance with regulations that are changing across the world. 6. How do Qualysec’s capabilities assist organizations in demonstrating DORA compliance? Qualysec can provide end-to-end TLPT capabilities including, threat intelligence collection, red team engagement, report writing that complies with regulatory bodies, remedial action. Our TLPT methodology is consistent with all major frameworks as supported by DORA. Conclusion It is clear that threat-led penetration testing is a strategic pillar towards achieving DORA compliance and increasing cyber resilience across the financial sector, and it is more than just a technical necessity. This kind of testing allows organizations to take a proactive approach in discovering, addressing, and reducing vulnerabilities through real-world threat scenarios. It will help with regulatory compliance and continuity of operations.  Incorporating Threat-led Penetration Testing into your cybersecurity posture is essential, especially now with DORA promoting benchmarks for digital operational resilience in the EU. By implementing this now, organizations will help ensure they will be prepare for evolving cyberthreats, build stakeholder confidence, and guarantee uninterrupted financial