As Physical Penetration Testers employed to test buildings security and expose their vulnerabilities, we and others like us, often focus on adopting an attacker's mindset. Afterall, isn’t doing what the threat actor does the whole point of penetration testing?
We meticulously plan our approaches, exploit vulnerabilities, and simulate real-world threats. However, at Toro we believe that true effectiveness in penetration testing stems from a thorough understanding of the building’s security viewpoint.
Instead of only thinking like the attacker, we should also think like the defender.
Thinking like a defender isn't about switching allegiances. It's about enhancing our comprehension of the environment we're evaluating and testing. By putting ourselves in a defender’s position, we gain valuable insights into the security measures in place, potential blind spots, the people employed as defenders, and likely reactions to our actions.
Why is this so important?
Improved Reconnaissance
Understanding the defender's perspective allows us to anticipate their security layers. We can identify potential surveillance systems, access control points, standard procedures, and incident response protocols. For example, knowing how security cameras are monitored allows us to plan our movements to avoid detection.
More Realistic Simulations
By understanding the defenders' likely actions, we can create more realistic attack scenarios. We can anticipate their responses, adapt our tactics, and provide a more accurate assessment of the defenders resilience to an attack. For example, knowing the typical response time of security staff allows us to gauge the window of opportunity for our simulated breach.
Enhanced Vulnerability Identification
Understanding the defender's security posture allows us to identify weaknesses that might otherwise be overlooked. We can analyse their security policies, identify potential gaps in their defences, and exploit vulnerabilities specific to their environment. For example, knowing the access control system's default configurations allows us to look for potential bypasses.
Better Reporting and Remediation
By understanding the defender's perspective, we can provide more actionable recommendations they understand that will help them improve their security. We can explain the implications of our findings within the context of their existing security measures and suggest targeted remediation strategies. For example, we can explain how a specific bypass of the access control system could be exploited given their specific security staff patrol patterns.
Ethical Considerations
Understanding the defender's perspective allows us to conduct our testing in a more responsible and ethical manner. We can minimise disruption, avoid unnecessary risks, and ensure our findings are presented constructively and helpfully.
How to Cultivate the Defender's Mindset
Here are some practical steps to help shift your perspective
Study Security Policies and Procedures
Familiarise yourself with the organisation's security policies, incident response plans, and access control procedures.
Conduct Thorough Site Surveys
Pay close attention to the physical layout of the building, the location of security cameras, access control points, and other security measures.
Talk to those who work in security
Gain insights into their daily routines, security protocols, and potential challenges.
Research Industry Best Practices
Stay up-to-date on the latest security technologies and best practices. Learn what good looks like to determine if these are being put into practice.
Simulate Incident Response
Practice responding to potential security incidents from the defender's perspective.
Final Thoughts
By integrating the defender's mindset into your penetration testing approach, you can elevate your testing capabilities and provide more valuable insights to those you are attacking. It's not about changing sides but about broadening our understanding of the overall security landscape to better serve those we are testing.
By understanding the defender's perspective, you can become more effective, ethical, and impactful penetration testers. Remember that the most effective penetration testers are those that can see the whole picture, from both the attacker's and the defender's perspective.
It’s not about switching sides - it’s about seeing both sides.
Want to take your penetration testing capabilities to the next level?
Start integrating the defender's mindset into your planning, simulations, and reporting. Whether you're new to security testing or a seasoned tester, this dual perspective will sharpen your edge and strengthen your value to clients.
If you’re looking for training on cultivating this mindset or if you need support with learning and practicing security offence and defence, then get in touch.