Penetration Testing Task and Scope

Task

The primary goal of the penetration test is to evaluate and strengthen the security of the target system by simulating real-world attack scenarios. This includes:

• Identifying Vulnerabilities: Locate weaknesses in the system, application, or network that may be exploited.
• Exploiting Vulnerabilities: Simulate attacks to determine the extent of potential damage and verify vulnerabilities.
• Assessing Impact: Evaluate the impact of successful exploitation on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
• Providing Recommendations: Deliver a detailed report with recommendations to mitigate risks and enhance security.

Scope

The scope defines the boundaries and limits of the penetration test to ensure it aligns with organizational goals and avoids unintended disruption. Common components of the scope include:

1. Target Systems

• List of IP addresses, domains, subdomains, or specific applications to test.
• Specify critical assets like databases, APIs, or CRM systems.

2. Testing Types

• Black Box Testing: Tester has no prior knowledge of the system.
• Gray Box Testing: Tester has partial knowledge or limited access.
• White Box Testing: Tester has full access to internal code or architecture.

3. Timeframe

• Start and end dates for the test.
• Periods of low system usage to minimize business impact.

4. Tools and Techniques

• Approved testing tools (e.g., Burp Suite, Metasploit, Nessus).
• Manual testing alongside automated tools.

5. Exclusions

• Components or systems explicitly excluded from testing (e.g., production systems).
• Specify if social engineering or denial-of-service (DoS) attacks are off-limits.

6. Reporting

• Deliverables such as vulnerability reports, executive summaries, or mitigation plans.
• Frequency of updates during testing, e.g., daily or weekly briefings.

7. Legal and Compliance Considerations

• Authorization documents (written consent for testing).
• Ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS.

8. Stakeholders

• Key individuals or teams involved, e.g., system admins, developers, and business leaders.