Web Application Penetration Testing
Providing the cybersecurity assurances you need when it comes to your critical web applications
What is a web application?
A web application is a broad term for an application which can be accessed by users through a web browser. This can be a public web browser, a specific private network or via an application programming interface (API).
Web apps are often pivotal to the day-to-day operations of organisations and any breach could potentially lead to reputational damage, as well as financial loss.
The security of web applications is therefore vital, whether you’re a software developer, end-user client or require testing to satisfy regulations such as GDPR & ISO 27001. Cybersecurity should considered at all stages, from development through to deployment.
The most common web applications we test include:
Corporate & transactional websites
Client, user & supplier portals
Corporate management software & intranet
Application programming interfaces (APIs)
Approaching a web app test
How can you approach web application penetration testing?
Our web application tests are delivered remotely, simulating a real-world attack. Engagements can follow a number of different approaches, guided by your requirements and priorities:
Black Box Approach
Black box testing mimics a real-life attack scenario, where we have basic knowledge of the web application, but have no access to the source code or any admin/user credentials.
Black box assessments are typically used by clients who wish to find out if a malicious threat could gain access to a web application from the outside.
White Box Approach
White box testing provides our consultants with a level of access prior to the test, whether it’s access to source code or user credentials.
This type of testing assumes that an attacker already has some level of access within the web application and is designed to understand the potential damage that can be achieved.
Grey Box Approach
This is our preferred approach to web application penetration testing, as we believe it provides the best value test in terms of results.
It is a hybrid approach (combining both white box and black box testing elements) and provides a security overview of the application from both the outside and the inside.
What we review in our web application testing
Our web application testing is aligned with industry standards such as OWASP and is tailored to your exact requirements, whether you’re looking to test the entire application or just specific areas of functionality. Our reviews can include:
Security configuration
& authentication
Application functionality, technology & data flow
Susceptibility to Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), SQL & other injection attacks
Data transfer security, password and sensitive data storage
Logic flaws such as access
control & broken authorisation
Testing against OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities
Not sure what type of penetration testing you need?
Our team will be happy to discuss your individual requirements and provide a no obligation proposal based on your needs.
The Pentest approach
Cybersecurity confidence doesn’t come from a one size fits all solution.
Every web app penetration test goes through a rigorous process to ensure you get the best possible results. Below we outline the key stages our testing goes through:
1. Understanding your test requirements
No two organisations, or projects, are the same. We work closely with you to gain an in-depth knowledge of your needs and a detailed understanding of the web application under investigation, before putting forward a bespoke proposal of work.
2. Expert led, manual testing
Our web app testing services are conducted manually by our expert cybersecurity consultants and are designed to fully challenge your cybersecurity measures. All our consultants are directly employed by us, meaning we ensure the highest quality of service.
3. Reporting, tailored to your needs
Reporting isn’t just a piece of paper, it’s a process. Our reporting process can be tailored to suit your needs, providing you with timely, relevant, and detailed information, not just on our findings but also our expert remediation advice.
4. Post-test support & documentation
Our job doesn't finish on the delivery of a test report. We make our consultants available after the test to provide remediation support and can provide fix checks, as well as additional documentation where necessary.
Like the sound of our web application testing approach?
You can find out more about our test process and why it sets us apart.
Find out more about our web application testing
Want to find out more about our web application penetration testing services? Our team are on hand to provide you with the information you need. Please fill out the form below and one of our team will be in touch shortly.
