Cybersecurity has become a highly essential technology in today’s digital world. Without digital security, no individual or business can operate efficiently. Cybersecurity has become a paradigm for online operations and functioning. According to research, over 5.4 billion malware attacks happened globally in 2022 alone.
This number is on the rise and isn’t slowing down anytime soon. However, businesses can protect themselves from such cyberattacks. You can make your digital assets safe with appropriate guidance and expert assistance. For this purpose, businesses engage penetration testing companies that can simulate real-world attacks on your systems to find vulnerabilities.
Keep reading this article to learn about some common vulnerabilities found in a pen test.
Top 6 Common Vulnerabilities found in Penetration Testing
Due to the increasing prevalence of cyberattacks, penetration testing is no longer an option. Pen testing when done by experts can identify numerous vulnerabilities. This is highly important for businesses that handle data, financial details, and proprietary information. One attack or vulnerability in the system can expose all the stakeholders to potential risks and dangers.
That being said, let’s delve deeper into the article to explore the common vulnerabilities found in a pen test.
Password Vulnerabilities
One of the most common vulnerabilities found in a pen test is password vulnerability. One of the worst mistakes people make is they create easy passwords. On top of that, people use default passwords for applications and services. These passwords are not only easy to guess but also very simple to crack.
Once a hacker gains access to the credentials, they can intrude into the digital systems. For this purpose, businesses often hire penetration testers to check for this vulnerability. Penetration experts use methods that hackers would and try to find password weaknesses. Once found, they can recommend steps to fix this issue effectively. You can contact the Penetration Testing Agency in UAE to get help in finding password vulnerabilities in your digital devices.
Endpoint and OS vulnerabilities
One more common vulnerability that is often identified during pen tests is endpoint and OS vulnerabilities. Every OS is weak in its own way. Each operating system has its strengths and weaknesses. Malicious actors knowing this, exploit such weaknesses. In addition, hackers try to target the endpoints of a host server and clients’ machines.
This is the part where information is received and sent from. Penetration testers can use ethical methods to find out OS and endpoint vulnerabilities. By identifying them, you can take steps to ensure future protection. In the case of OS, you can install the manufacturers’ updates and patches. In the case of endpoints, you can encrypt information with the requisite software.
Authentication Issues
Another common vulnerability seen during pen tests is authentication issues. Authentication is a very huge factor in ensuring digital security. With weak or non-existent authentications, malicious actors can easily intrude on your systems. Once inside your device, they can make any changes that deem appropriate to them.
However, you shouldn’t let this happen to your business. You can hire penetration testers to identify authentication issues in your systems. Penetration testers analyze and test your systems rigorously. They make sure not a single page is left unturned. Once they identify all the authentication issues, you can get recommendations for necessary actions.
Infected Files
One more common vulnerability witnessed during pen tests is infected files. Infected files are one of the biggest cybersecurity concerns. It often happens when you mistakenly or unknowingly download untrusted files. These files upon downloading will infect your system immediately.
The infection will keep increasing to your personal and system files ultimately making your systems ineffective. Don’t worry, you can avoid such a situation very easily. You can engage a reputable penetration testing expert to identify infected files on your systems. With that done, you can install the necessary security software for removal and protection against infections.
Injection Susceptibility
Another common vulnerability recognized during pen tests is injection susceptibility. Injection susceptibility refers to weak security that can lead to malware intrusions. Such intrusions work through scripting and executable services. People often visit a site thinking it’s safe and verified. The website works in a way to make you download a file, folder, or executable.
As soon as you double-click it, malware injection begins and infects the whole system. This is where penetration testing services can protect you. Security professionals can implement the necessary software and tools that will stop you from running malware injectables. This will not only safeguard your digital systems but it will also protect your financial assets.
Security Misconfigurations
One last but most common vulnerability spotted during pen tests is security misconfigurations. Security misconfigurations are often one of the biggest reasons for cyberattacks and hacks. This vulnerability can lead to compromised security making you hopeless in tough situations. Security misconfiguration can be hardware and software-based.
Penetration experts test all your devices and software for such misconfigurations. These include firewalls, databases, routers, switches, network services, and more. Penetration professionals can assist you in executing the necessary configuration steps. You can consult penetration testing agencies in UAE for help in identifying and fixing security misconfigurations in your systems.
Identify and Fix Vulnerabilities with Penetration Testing
Penetration testing is a potent way to identify and fix vulnerabilities. It can let you identify loopholes in your digital infrastructure and patch them accordingly. Pen testing experts can analyze your systems comprehensively and generate reports for rectification. Get in touch with a cybersecurity company today to protect your digital assets from online risks.
