Checking the Box: Automated vs Manual Penetration Testing

Automated vs Manual Pentesting

The cybersecurity space has seen a rise in what experts call the "checking the box" approach to penetration testing (pentesting). Turning what is still a manual solution into an automated one; then packaging the final product as the same thing.

The Rise of Automated Pentesting

In recent years, automated and semi-automated penetration testing solutions have emerged. Companies like Vonahi (acquired by Kaseya), Pentera, and Intruder are at the forefront of this trend. These tools offer a faster and cheaper alternative to traditional manual pentesting. However, they often function as glorified vulnerability scans, missing the creativity and strategic thinking of a human ethical hacker. These automated solutions are also often sold as SaaS to resellers (MSPs, vCISOs, GRC Softwares, etc) adding more dilution to the understanding of audit guidelines such as SOC2.

The "Check the Box" Approach

While these automated solutions might seem attractive for startups and SMBs on a tight budget, they can sometimes create a false sense of security. These solutions may help meet the bare minimum requirements of a SOC 2 audit but not all CPAs will accept the reports as evidence. But remember, a SOC 2 report is more than just a check the box exercise. It's about demonstrating a robust security posture and if a data breach does occur as a legal defense that you did what you could to prevent it.

Why Manual Pentesting Matters

A manual penetration test, conducted by a skilled ethical hacker, is the standard. When you tell someone you

• Uncovers Hidden Vulnerabilities Chains: Ethical hackers employ creative thinking and a wide range of techniques to find vulnerabilities that automated scans will miss. Leveraging one finding to find another. NIST will update the CVE database quicker than a SaaS can be updated, QA'd, and Pushed; especially for a safety critical SaaS.
• Simulates Real-World Attacks: Manual pentesting mimics the tactics of real attackers, providing a more accurate picture of your security posture.
• Provides Actionable Remediation Steps: A thorough manual pentest report will not only identify vulnerabilities but also offer clear recommendations for fixing them.

Invest in Manual Testing

While automated and semi-automated solutions may have their place, they shouldn't be a substitute for a manual pentest when it comes to compliance. For a comprehensive security assessment and true peace of mind, a manual pentest from a reputable firm like K1C is the best option. 

‍Contact K1C today to discuss your specific needs and get a quote for a manual penetration test that will give you the confidence you deserve.