World-leading cyber security expertise since 2003
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Consultancy & Advisory

Attack & penetration testing

Preparing for every eventuality, just in case…

Introduction

Penetration testing, also known as ethical hacking, is a critical cyber security measure. It identifies and exploits vulnerabilities in systems, applications, and networks, simulating real-world attacks to expose weaknesses.

This proactive approach strengthens systems and maintains trust by preventing potential security breaches.. With detailed reports and actionable recommendations, organisations can reinforce their defences, mitigate risks, and maintain compliance with regulations. Regular penetration tests are essential to adapt to evolving threats, protect against data breaches and financial losses, and demonstrate a robust commitment to security.

STATISTICS
20%

The annual growth of penetration testing in the UK

…to ensure your operational resilience, sustained trust and financial stability.

81.4%

of UK organisations experienced a cyber attack in 2022

Skills

According to recent reports in the industry…

cyber security is now the most sought after technology skills category in the UK.

HOW WE DO IT

Our penetration testing process

Our penetration testing process begins with a thorough scoping phase, defining the assets and vulnerabilities to be tested. We then gather intelligence using open-source techniques to build a comprehensive threat profile. Active scanning and vulnerability analysis follow, identifying potential weaknesses in your systems

Next, we perform detailed application analysis and service exploitation, simulating real-world attacks to test your defences. Our experts then try to gain higher access levels and move within the network to evaluate the potential damage if a system is compromised.. Finally, we provide a detailed report with actionable recommendations to strengthen your security posture.

Key features

Our penetration services are designed to identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities, ensuring your organisation remains resilient against evolving cyber threats. Key features include:

  • Comprehensive Assessments: Simulating real-world attacks to uncover hidden weaknesses in your systems.
  • Detailed Reporting: Providing actionable insights and recommendations for effective remediation.
  • Continuous Improvement: Regular testing to stay ahead of evolving threats and maintain compliance.
  • Expert Team: CREST-certified professionals with deep technical and human behavioural understanding.
  • Tailored Solutions: Customised testing strategies to meet specific business needs and regulatory requirements.

Benefits

Penetration services offer unparalleled insights into your cyber security posture. By simulating real-world attacks, we identify and address vulnerabilities, ensuring robust defences. This proactive approach minimises the risk of data breaches, financial losses, and regulatory non-compliance. Detailed reports and actionable recommendations empower your team to strengthen defences quickly and effectively. Regular testing keeps you ahead of evolving threats, demonstrating a commitment to security and operational resilience. Our CREST-certified experts, held to the highest ethical and technical standards, provide the assurance that your security strategy is both effective and reliable.

We Work With
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IN DETAIL

Types of penetration testing

Internal penetration testing focuses on identifying vulnerabilities within an organisation’s internal network, simulating an insider threat or a scenario where an attacker has breached the perimeter. This type of testing evaluates the security of internal systems, user privileges, and data access controls. External penetration testing, on the other hand, targets an organisation’s external-facing assets, such as websites, web applications, and network infrastructure. It aims to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by external attackers to gain unauthorised access. Both types are crucial for a comprehensive security posture.

Click a testing type below:

Network (internal & external) testing

Network (internal & external) testing

In cyber security, protecting internal and external networks is essential. Our network testing services thoroughly examine your infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities. Internal testing simulates insider threats, reviewing user privileges and data access controls, while external testing focuses on outward-facing assets like websites and web applications to identify potential entry points for attackers.

  • Our approach combines advanced methodologies and real-world attack simulations to provide a comprehensive security assessment.
  • Detailed reports with actionable insights to help you quickly address vulnerabilities and strengthen your defences.
  • Trust in our expertise to ensure your network’s resilience and sustained trust in your cyber security posture.

Web application testing

Web application testing

Web applications are crucial to modern business but are often targeted by cyber threats. Our web application testing services thoroughly assess your apps for vulnerabilities like SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and logic flaws. Through real-world attack simulations, we deliver a detailed analysis of potential risks and provide clear recommendations to improve your security. Our CREST-certified experts use proven methodologies to cover all aspects of security, from authentication to session management. Regular testing strengthens your defences, shows a commitment to cyber security, and helps maintain regulatory compliance, giving stakeholders confidence.

Cloud penetration testing

Cloud penetration testing

Cloud penetration testing is critical for identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in cloud environments. As more organisations move to the cloud, ensuring strong security measures is essential. Our CREST-certified experts simulate real-world attacks to uncover weaknesses in your cloud infrastructure.

We provide detailed reports with practical recommendations to help you quickly improve security. Regular cloud penetration testing supports compliance with regulations like GDPR and strengthens defences against emerging threats. Our tailored approach considers the unique aspects of each cloud service provider, offering comprehensive assessments that cover all potential attack vectors.

WE’RE UNIQUE

How our services stand out.

Our approach brings together expert knowledge, advanced techniques, and a commitment to constantly improving. Every penetration test is thoughtfully planned, using real-world scenarios to uncover vulnerabilities that might otherwise go unnoticed. Our CREST-certified team uses the latest tools to ensure we cover all aspects of your digital environment.

After each test, we deliver clear, actionable reports to help you quickly address any issues and quickly improve security. We tailor our process to your organisation’s needs, thoroughly assessing all potential risks. This personalised approach not only strengthens your defences but also ensures compliance and supports long-term security.

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OUR EXPERIENCE

Case studies and success stories.

Since 2003, we have been working with organisations across a wide range of sectors to improve their network and data security. Take a look at some of our case studies to see how we go about it.

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Bristows law firm

Discover the multifaceted impact of Bristows’ strategic partnership with Reliance Cyber…

Read this case study

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Securing Tax Systems

Tax Systems has worked with Reliance Cyber to ensure their cyber security posture remains robust and compliant with evolving industry standards…

Read this case study

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Reliance Cyber & Delt

Together with Delt, we’re providing next-level cyber security for NHS, GPs and local government…

Read this case study

More case studies
PEN TESTING EXPLAINED

What is penetration testing and attack simulation?

Penetration testing and attack simulation are critical methodologies in cyber security. They involve simulating real-world cyber-attacks to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in an organisation’s systems, applications, and networks. This proactive measure ensures that potential security gaps are discovered and addressed before they can be exploited by malicious actors. 

These services are essential for maintaining operational resilience, building sustained trust, and ensuring financial stability. By conducting regular penetration tests, organisations can fortify their defences, comply with regulatory requirements, and demonstrate a robust commitment to cyber security.

Why is penetration testing important

Penetration testing is crucial for identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors. It provides a proactive approach to cyber security, ensuring that your systems, applications, and networks are robust against potential threats. Regular testing helps maintain compliance with industry regulations, such as GDPR and demonstrates a strong commitment to security. By simulating real-world attacks, penetration testing enhances operational resilience, builds sustained trust with stakeholders, and prevents financial losses due to data breaches. This essential practice supports informed decision-making and future security investments.

Benefits of cyber security penetration testing

It identifies hidden vulnerabilities, allowing you to address them before they can be exploited. This process improves your understanding of cyber risks, helping guide strategic decisions and future investments. Independent validation of your security posture shows a commitment to protecting digital assets. Ongoing support after testing ensures your defences stay strong and compliant with regulations. Regular penetration testing reduces risk and helps maintain operational resilience.

FURTHER INFO

FAQs

What is CREST accreditation?

What is CREST accreditation?

CREST accreditation represents a high standard in cyber security, ensuring that penetration testing and attack simulations meet strict technical and ethical guidelines. It guarantees our experts have proven skills and follow rigorous industry practices. For C-suite executives and IT directors, CREST certification provides confidence that your organisation’s defences are assessed by trusted professionals. This certification also helps meet compliance requirements like GDPR, offering assurance in a constantly changing threat environment. Trust CREST-certified experts to strengthen your cyber security with confidence.

What kind of reports can I expect after a penetration test?

What kind of reports can I expect after a penetration test?

After a penetration test, you will receive a detailed report outlining the risks and vulnerabilities found, along with a business impact analysis and practical guidance for remediation. We also include insights into how easily issues could be exploited. An executive summary, designed for C-suite and IT directors, clearly presents the key findings and strategic recommendations. Our goal is to provide support and guidance throughout the process, empowering your team to address security gaps without creating pressure or undermining existing efforts.

How often should penetration testing be conducted?

How often should penetration testing be conducted?

This should be done at least once a year to maintain security, with more frequent tests recommended after major changes like infrastructure upgrades, new product launches, or mergers. Regular testing also helps meet compliance standards like PCI DSS and uncovers new vulnerabilities, ensuring your security measures stay effective as cyber threats evolve.

What is the difference between internal and external penetration testing?

What is the difference between internal and external penetration testing?

Internal penetration testing focuses on identifying vulnerabilities within an organisation’s internal network. It simulates an attack from within the company, assessing risks posed by insiders or compromised internal systems. External penetration testing, on the other hand, targets the organisation’s external-facing assets, such as websites and firewalls. It mimics an attack from outside, evaluating defences against external threats. Both types are crucial for comprehensive cyber security, ensuring protection against different types of threats.

Can penetration testing disrupt my business operations?

Can penetration testing disrupt my business operations?

Penetration testing is designed to identify and safely exploit vulnerabilities without causing disruption. Professional pen testers use controlled methods to ensure minimal impact on your day-to-day activities. Testing can be scheduled during off-peak hours or in non-production environments to further mitigate any potential interruptions. Detailed planning and clear communication with your team help ensure the process is smooth and unobtrusive.

The goal is to strengthen your security without compromising operational efficiency.

Book your free 30-minute cyber security consultation

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Find out more about how we can help your business secure its netorks and critical digital assets.

Reliance Cyber can monitor and manage your organisation’s security infrastructure 24/7.

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