5 Tips for Selecting a Penetration Testing Company in 2025

1. 5 Tips for Selecting a Penetration Testing Company in 2025 As cyber threats continue to grow in sophistication, businesses must stay proactive about securing their digital assets. Penetration testing, a critical part of a robust cybersecurity strategy, involves simulating cyberattacks on a system to identify vulnerabilities before hackers can exploit them. While many organizations recognize the need for penetration testing, selecting the right penetration testing company can be challenging given the range of options available. With the market expected to reach $4.5 billion by 2026 , businesses must make an informed choice when investing in these services. This article outlines five key tips for selecting the right penetration testing company in 2025, ensuring you get the best value and protection for your investment. 1. Evaluate Experience and Industry Specialization Not all penetration testing companies are created equal. When selecting a provider, it's crucial to look for one that has a proven track record and experience in your specific industry. Cybersecurity needs vary significantly across different sectors—what’s critical for a healthcare provider may be very different from a financial services firm. ● Track Record: Look for a company with a solid history of providing penetration testing services. Ask for case studies, client testimonials, and references that can vouch for their expertise. A reputable firm should be able to demonstrate successful projects similar to what you need. Industry Expertise: Ensure that the provider understands the regulatory and security challenges specific to your industry. For example, in 2023, 83% of healthcare organizations reported being ● Phone: +64 0800 349 561 Email: hello@blacklock.io Web: https://www.blacklock.io/

2. targeted by ransomware attacks , underscoring the need for specialized knowledge in handling patient data. Similarly, financial services companies often need to comply with stringent regulations like PCI-DSS, which requires expertise in securing payment systems. By choosing a penetration testing company that understands your industry’s unique risks, you can ensure that their testing methodologies align with your security needs. 2. Verify Qualifications and Certifications Penetration testing is a specialized field that requires specific technical knowledge and skills. When choosing a penetration testing company, it’s essential to verify that their team is well-qualified and holds industry-recognized certifications. ● Certifications to Look For: Common certifications that indicate a high level of expertise include Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and CREST. These certifications ensure that the testers have undergone rigorous training and possess a deep understanding of the latest hacking techniques. Accredited Companies: Look for companies that are accredited by industry bodies like CREST, EC-Council, or ISO 27001. These accreditations signify that the company adheres to industry standards in penetration testing methodologies and data security. ● Why This Matters: According to a survey by (ISC)², 70% of cybersecurity professionals believe that the skills gap in the industry is a significant concern . Partnering with a company that has certified professionals helps ensure that you’re working with skilled experts who can identify and address vulnerabilities effectively. 3. Assess the Methodology and Approach The approach a penetration testing company takes can greatly impact the effectiveness of their service. Understanding their testing methodology helps you gauge their thoroughness and how well their approach aligns with your needs. ● White Box, Black Box, or Gray Box Testing: The types of tests conducted vary based on the level of access the tester has to the system. White box testing involves full access to the application code, black box testing is performed with no prior knowledge, and gray box testing combines elements of both. A good penetration testing company should explain which approach is best suited for your needs. Compliance with Industry Standards: Ensure that the company follows recognized frameworks such as OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project), NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology), and MITRE ATT&CK. These standards ensure that the testing process is thorough and aligned with best practices in the industry. ● Phone: +64 0800 349 561 Email: hello@blacklock.io Web: https://www.blacklock.io/

3. ● Reporting Quality: A comprehensive and clear report is a key deliverable of any penetration test. The report should not only list vulnerabilities but also provide a detailed risk assessment, impact analysis, and actionable remediation steps. Some companies also offer dashboard-based reporting, which provides real-time insights during the testing process, making it easier to track progress and understand risks. Statistics to Note: In a 2024 survey by Gartner, 65% of businesses cited the lack of clear reporting as a major frustration when working with third-party cybersecurity providers . A clear, actionable report can make the difference between understanding your risks and merely being aware of them. 4. Consider the Use of PTaaS for Continuous Security Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS) is becoming increasingly popular, providing a flexible, on-demand model for businesses looking to conduct regular security testing. PTaaS platforms offer continuous testing and real-time vulnerability scanning, making them an attractive alternative to traditional penetration testing. ● Benefits of PTaaS: PTaaS platforms provide access to a user-friendly dashboard where you can monitor vulnerabilities as they are discovered, track remediation efforts, and collaborate with testers in real-time. This approach is particularly useful for businesses that deploy regular updates to their web applications and need to ensure that each release is secure. Cost-Effectiveness: Traditional penetration testing can be costly, with one-time tests ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. PTaaS, on the other hand, can offer continuous testing for a more manageable monthly fee, starting at around $1,500 per month . This makes it more accessible ● Phone: +64 0800 349 561 Email: hello@blacklock.io Web: https://www.blacklock.io/

4. for small and medium-sized businesses that want to maintain a high level of security without a large upfront investment. Why This Matters: The frequency of updates and changes to web applications has increased, with DevOps practices enabling faster releases. In this environment, PTaaS helps maintain continuous security and avoids the gaps that can occur between periodic tests. 5. Review Their Post-Test Support and Remediation Guidance The value of a penetration test extends beyond identifying vulnerabilities—it lies in the guidance provided for fixing them. A good web application penetration testing company will offer post-test support, helping your development and IT teams understand the findings and implement effective remediation measures. ● Remediation Guidance: Look for a company that provides detailed recommendations on how to address each identified vulnerability. This may include guidance on code fixes, configuration changes, or suggestions for improving security practices. Availability for Re-Testing: After the vulnerabilities have been fixed, re-testing is essential to verify that the issues have been resolved properly. Some companies offer re-testing as part of their package, while others may charge additional fees. Make sure to clarify this upfront. Training for Your Team: Some penetration testing companies also provide training sessions for your in-house development or security teams, helping them better understand the vulnerabilities and how to prevent them in the future. This can be especially valuable if your team is new to security best practices. ● ● Statistics Highlight: A report by Forrester in 2024 found that 78% of organizations improved their security posture by working with penetration testing companies that offered comprehensive post-test support . This underscores the importance of selecting a partner who is committed to helping you address vulnerabilities, not just identifying them. Conclusion Choosing the right penetration testing company is a critical decision that can significantly impact your organization’s cybersecurity posture. By evaluating methodology, and post-test support, and by considering the flexibility of PTaaS models, you can find a partner that aligns with your specific needs. the provider’s experience, qualifications, With the ever-evolving threat landscape, it’s more important than ever to invest in robust security measures and partner with experts who can help you stay ahead of potential risks. As you navigate the market in 2025, these tips will help ensure that you make an informed decision that supports the security of your digital assets. Phone: +64 0800 349 561 Email: hello@blacklock.io Web: https://www.blacklock.io/