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What is VAPT Testing, Its Methodology & Importance for Business?
VAPT Testing

What is VAPT Testing, Its Methodology & Importance for Business?

Data breaches are getting more common with each passing day. From the fintech, IT, healthcare, and banking industries, among others, it appears that no data is as secure as we expect. According to statistics, the average cost of a data breach grew by 2.6% to $4.35 million in 2022 from $4.24 million in 2021. Furthermore, the average cost of a data breach for critical infrastructure businesses, on the other hand, has risen to $4.82 million. To secure these cyberattacks, companies employ VAPT i.e., Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing. This deep testing method helps in securing digital assets and company infrastructure. In this blog, we will cover everything about Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing: VAPT testing methodology, and their benefits for businesses. What is VAPT Testing? Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) is a thorough cybersecurity process that identifies, evaluates, and fixes vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications. It brings together two separate approaches: Vulnerability Assessment (VA): This is concerned with detecting flaws and vulnerabilities in a system, Penetration Testing (PT): This is concerned with attempting to exploit these vulnerabilities to assess the system’s resistance to assaults. Method & Goal of VAPT: VAPT seeks to proactively detect security flaws, allowing enterprises to rectify them before bad actors exploit them. Penetration testing, in particular, simulates malicious attacks in order to assess a company’s capacity to fight against and sustain cyber-attacks. Vulnerability Assessment entails identifying vulnerabilities using scanning tools and procedures, whereas Penetration Testing aims to exploit these flaws. Importance of VAPT: VAPT aids in the protection of sensitive data, allowing organizations to avoid the disastrous effects of data breaches, maintain regulatory compliance, and preserve their brand. Furthermore, VAPT has financial ramifications, as cyberattacks may be costly. Noncompliance with legal and regulatory standards might result in legal penalties, hence VAPT is required. VAPT is an essential component of a company’s cybersecurity strategy, contributing to data protection, reputation management, financial well-being, and legal compliance. Difference Between Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Testing This is the process of identifying and measuring a system’s vulnerability. Discovers and exploits flaws in order to circumvent security safeguards and compromise systems. It creates a list of vulnerabilities ranked by severity. Also, it aids in determining the path that the attacker will follow to gain control of the system(s). Assessments begin the process of identifying systems with security concerns and their influence on the risk posture of the company. When a business has an acceptable degree of security measures and wishes to find further vulnerabilities, pen testing should be performed following assessments. In order to prioritize security concerns, assessments discover, define, identify, and prioritize vulnerabilities or security holes in a system and organization. Pen tests are used to identify vulnerabilities with specific purposes in mind. They want to know how a cybercriminal might take advantage of a vulnerability to compromise a system or business   Talk to our Cybersecurity Expert to discuss your specific needs and how we can help your business. Schedule a Call What is the VAPT Methodology? There are 3 different methods or strategies used to conduct VAPT, namely; Black box testing, white box testing, and gray box testing. Here’s what you need to know about them: 1. Black Box Testing A black box penetration test provides the tester with no knowledge about what is being tested. In this scenario, the pen tester executes an attacker’s plan with no special rights, from initial access and execution until exploitation. 2. White Box Testing White box testing is a type of testing in which the tester has complete access to the system’s internal code. He has the appearance of an insider. The tester understands what the code expects to perform in this type of testing. Furthermore, it is a method of testing a system’s security by examining how effectively it handles various types of real-time assaults. 3. Gray Box Testing The tester is only provided a limited amount of information during a grey box penetration test, also known as a transparent box test. Typically, this is done with login information. Grey box testing can assist you in determining how much access a privileged person has and how much harm they can cause. What is the Process of VAPT Testing? Here is the step-by-step guide to the VAPT Testing Process, containing all the phases of how the testing is done: 1. Pre-Assessment The testing team specifies the scope and objectives of the test during the pre-assessment phase. They collaborate with the app’s owner or developer to understand the app’s goals, functions, and possible dangers. This step involves preparation and logistics, such as defining the testing environment, establishing rules of engagement, and getting any necessary approvals and credentials to execute the test. 2. Information Gathering The testing company advocates taking a simplified method to begin the testing procedure. Begin by using the supplied link to submit an inquiry, which will put you in touch with knowledgeable cybersecurity specialists. They will walk you through the process of completing a pre-assessment questionnaire, which covers both technical and non-technical elements of your desired mobile application. Testers arrange a virtual presentation meeting to explain the evaluation approach, tools, timing, and expected expenses. Following that, they set up the signing of a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) and service agreement to ensure strict data protection. Once all necessary information has been gathered, the penetration testing will begin, ensuring the security of your mobile app. 3. Penetration Testing The testing team actively seeks to attack vulnerabilities and security flaws in the mobile app during the penetration testing process. This phase consists of a series of simulated assaults and evaluations to detect flaws. Testers can rate the application’s or infrastructure’s authentication procedures, data storage, data transport, session management, and connection with external services. Source code analysis, dynamic analysis, reverse engineering, manual testing, and automation testing are all common penetration testing methodologies a tester uses. 4. Analysis Each finding’s severity is assessed individually, and those with higher ratings have a greater technical and commercial effect with fewer dependencies. Likelihood Determination: The assessment team rates the likelihood

Best VAPT Company in New Zealand_ Top 10 Providers
VAPT, VAPT Testing

Best VAPT Company in New Zealand: Top 10 Providers

Cyber threats have become a significant issue that is continually transforming; as a result, safeguarding digital products is paramount. Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) has become essential in defending against cyber threats. VAPT aids organizations in determining risks and dangers that may exist so that appropriate steps can be undertaken to secure it from exploitation. This blog aims to explain what VAPT is and how to choose the best VAPT provider. It also lists the  top 10 VAPT companies in New Zealand that use simulated cyberattacks to help clients identify vulnerabilities and evaluate security controls. Given the constantly changing nature of threats, frequent VAPT is recommended to discover weaknesses before they occur. Why VAPT is Crucial For Your Business? Security threats can lead to various consequences, such as financial losses, compromising the organization’s reputation, and even legal charges. Thus, VAPT offers preventive measures when it comes to such threats. Here’s why VAPT is indispensable: 1. Early Detection of Vulnerabilities Organizations could discover and address security flaws in their networks, systems, and applications before bad actors take advantage of them by using vulnerability assessment and penetration testing, or VAPT. Therefore, early detection lowers the risk of breaches, enables quick remediation, and improves overall security posture. 2. Compliance and Regulation VAPT is necessary to guarantee compliance with several industry standards and laws, including GDPR, PCI-DSS, and ISO 27001. Hence, conducting routine testing assists firms in adhering to regulatory bodies’ security policies, avoiding fines, and meeting compliance obligations. 3. Protecting Sensitive Data VAPT is essential for preventing data breaches and leaks in firms that handle sensitive data. Therefore, companies can reduce the risk of data loss and maintain data integrity by protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access by quickly identifying and resolving vulnerabilities. 4. Building Trust Frequent VAPT improves an organization’s security protocols and builds stakeholders’ and consumers’ confidence. Hence, showing a dedication to security gives customers confidence that their information is secure, enhancing business ties and elevating the company’s standing.  5. Cost Savings Using VAPT to proactively detect and mitigate security vulnerabilities can result in significant cost savings. Organizations can ensure resilience and financial stability by averting legal penalties, reputational harm, and the high costs of data loss by preventing data breaches and other security disasters.  How to Choose the Best VAPT Company in Newzeland? Choosing the best VAPT company is important for ensuring thorough and adequate security. The following are the key factors to take into consideration: 1. Look for Experience and Expertise Choose businesses with a proven track record of providing VAPT services to various sectors. Good service is guaranteed by their wealth of expertise and in-depth knowledge of various assault vectors. Therefore, evidence of their proficiency shows that they can successfully manage multiple security issues. 2. Certifications and Accreditations Verify if the service provider is certified in the appropriate fields, such as CISSP, OSCP, or CEH. These certifications show their commitment to maintaining strict security testing guidelines, continuing professional growth, and competence in penetration testing and vulnerability assessment.  3. Process-Based VAPT Choose vendors who conduct information collection, planning, automated and manual testing, reporting, certification, and other processes following a standardized VAPT approach. Thus, this systematic approach guarantees thorough and consistent security assessments that address all aspects of your network’s vulnerabilities. 4. Customize to Customer’s Needs Choose a supplier who can create customized solutions to fulfill the specific security needs of your business. Customized VAPT services tackle specific weaknesses and threats pertinent to your company, guaranteeing more efficient defense and a better match for your security requirements.  5. Detailed Reporting and Remediation Support VAPT providers must offer thorough reports with understandable conclusions and suggestions for the next steps. In order to help you adequately address vulnerabilities that have been found and guarantee that security issues are immediately and completely fixed, they must also provide remediation support.   You can download the sample VAPT report to have a better idea and comprehensive details about the format of the report. Latest Penetration Testing Report Download 6. Client References and Reviews Assess the service provider’s reputation and the standard of their VAPT services by looking at customer ratings and reviews. Positive feedback and solid client references demonstrate a track record of successful security testing, dependability, and credibility.  Top 10 VAPT Companies in New Zealand Here is the list of the top 10 VAPT companies in New Zealand that are known for their excellent customer support and diverse security services. 1. Qualysec Technologies One of the top VAPT companies that dominate the information security sector is Qualysec Technologies. Customers can enhance their security levels and protect their assets with the help of their VAPT services in New Zealand. Moreover, among the services they provide are: Web App Pen testing Mobile App Pen testing API Pen testing Cloud Security Pen testing IoT Device Pen testing AI/ML Pen testing Qualified researchers and security experts make up the Qualysec team. They work together to provide their clients with the newest security procedures and technologies. Additionally, they use both automatic and manual tools and techniques to offer VAPT services. Additionally, they aid in adhering to industry norms. Furthermore, during the post-assessment, they offer recommendations and consultations, a report detailing the vulnerabilities found, and explicit instructions on resolving the issue.  In addition to its services, Qualysec provides a set price structure. It’s intended for applications that range from small to medium in size. Many companies and startups have benefited from Qualysec’s assistance in establishing their applications. You can arrange a call with our specialists to discuss the security of your application. Click below to schedule a call and benefit from the best VAPT services.   Talk to our Cybersecurity Expert to discuss your specific needs and how we can help your business. Schedule a Call 2. Quantum Security Services Based in New Zealand, Quantum Security Services is a reputable provider of cyber security services. They provide VAPT, among other services, to enhance organization security, and they deal with a wide range of clients in many industries. Furthermore, they follow strict protocols and use technological innovations to find

Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing Services
Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing

Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing

In this interconnected world, the security of digital assets is inevitable. The data, applications, and resources of organizations stored online are always vulnerable to some kind of cyber threat. To protect them, the best option is to implement vulnerability assessment and penetration testing (VAPT) services. These services find and fix potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cyber attackers or hackers. As per a report from IBM, the highest recorded data breach in 2023 was $4.35 million, with an average ransomware attack costing $4.54 million. Cyber security experts predict that global cybercrime costs will grow by 15% in each upcoming year, reaching $10.5 trillion annually by the end of 2025. With data breaches and cybercrimes increasing exponentially, having strong security for your digital assets is now more important than ever. In this blog, we will discuss vulnerability assessment and penetration testing, their importance, and the different types that organizations can choose from. What is Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing are two parts of vulnerability testing that are often combined to achieve a comprehensive vulnerability analysis. Vulnerability assessment tools identify vulnerabilities that are already present, however, they do not differentiate between the security flaws that can be used by attacks to cause damage. Penetration testing, on the other hand, detects all those vulnerabilities that can be used for unauthorized access or to conduct any kind of malicious activity. Together, the entire VAPT process provides a detailed report of the security flaws present in the IT environment and the risks associated with them. Vulnerability Assessment VS Penetration Testing Vulnerability assessment involves using automated tools to identify vulnerabilities in the security measures. In contrast, penetration testing is done manually by cyber security professionals, to determine vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. Vulnerability Assessment Penetration Testing Focused on detecting and categorizing vulnerabilities in the tested environment. It involves simulating real-world cyberattacks to find vulnerabilities in the tested environment. Mostly automated scans. Requires manual testing along with automated scans. May miss critical and complex vulnerabilities. Detects all kinds of vulnerabilities, even the ones that vulnerability scans miss. Takes significantly less time and money than penetration testing. It is time-consuming and expensive but yields better results. Penetration Testing Penetration testing involves finding vulnerabilities, security flaws, and risks in a digital environment. It is done to improve the organization’s security system and defend the IT infrastructure from evolving cyber threats. Penetration testing or pentesting is a part of the ethical hacking process that specifically focuses only on penetrating the IT environment. Vulnerability Assessment Vulnerability assessment is a security testing technique to find and measure security issues in a given environment. Furthermore, it uses automation tools to assess the security position of the given area. It identifies potential vulnerabilities and provides required mitigation techniques to either remove them or reduce them below the risk level. The report of Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) will consist of all the vulnerabilities found and recommendations to fix them. Benefits of Conducting Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) services provide organizations with a more comprehensive evaluation than any single test alone. Further, here are the many benefits of conducting VAPT: Identify Vulnerabilities Before Cybercriminals Nowadays cybercriminals are using automated tools to find and exploit vulnerabilities in an IT infrastructure. These tools scan networks, open ports, and use many other techniques to find any weaknesses and then use them to gain access and execute malicious activities. Organizations can conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to track down these weaknesses. This way you can remove them before criminals use them for their benefit and strengthen the overall security posture. Streamline the Fixes you Need to Do Some vulnerabilities are difficult to find and may not be recognized until they are identified. Because of VAPT, you can uncover these flaws, and help you remediate them. Rather than applying random fixes across the network components, you can pinpoint specific vulnerabilities that need fixing. In addition, you will also be able to know what areas should be given more priority. Protect the Integrity of your Digital Assets Many vulnerabilities are also found in malicious code that are hidden inside applications and services. As a result, cybercriminals can use them to steal sensitive data. However, with regular vulnerability assessment and penetration testing services, you can find these weak spots effectively and ensure that your digital assets are safe. Comply with Industry Standards One of the most important benefits of conducting vulnerability assessment and penetration testing is you can comply with certain mandatory regulatory standards. Certain industries like healthcare and finance need organizations to meet their standards of HIPAA and PCI DSS. If you do not meet the requirements, it may lead to severe financial penalties and reputation damage. For this reason, VAPT is conducted regularly by organizations. Enhance Credibility with Customers and Partners Your customers, partners, and stakeholders are the ones who drive your business forward. Doing regular vulnerability assessment and penetration testing as a part of your security measures shows that you take the security of your business seriously. As a result, it builds credibility with them since they find it secure to do business with you. It’s an easy and effective way to tell them that their data is secure with you. How do VAPT Services Prevent Data Breaches? Data breaches are among the top challenges faced by organizations in the digital world. It is also equally challenging for individuals who face security risks like financial loss, identity theft, and loss of trust. Data stands as the most important yet weakest asset in any organization. For this reason, companies conduct VAPT services to protect their network and data from various cyberattacks. VAPT involves finding weaknesses present in the existing security measures. As a result, conducting regular VAPT services will reveal through which hackers or attackers could enter the network and do malicious acts like stealing sensitive data.   Do you want to keep your organization’s sensitive data safe from hackers? Book a consultation with Qualysec

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Pabitra Kumar Sahoo

Pabitra Kumar Sahoo

COO & Cybersecurity Expert

“By filling out this form, you can take the first step towards securing your business, During the call, we will discuss your specific security needs and whether our services are a good fit for your business”

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Pabitra Kumar Sahoo

Pabitra Kumar Sahoo

COO & Cybersecurity Expert