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What is it?

Application Security Testing involves testers attempting to break into an application (either online or internal), using the same tools and techniques which a hacker would use.

Why do it?

As organisations become more aware of external threats and take steps to secure the perimeter, unauthorised users are taking advantage of flaws in programming which could enable them to access the application and use it maliciously. By testing applications you can ensure the integrity and security of business systems, giving you the tools to identify and correct vulnerabilities in applications which could expose your business.

Any organisation which is running e-commerce applications is particularly vulnerable as using methods such as Cross Site scripting and SQL injection can enable a hacker to obtain information such as credit card details, and also to manipulate the application for their benefit.

What it means to my organisation?

Application Security testing has become a vital tool in ensuring the integrity and security of business systems. If you are running applications such as Content Management Systems,
e-commerce systems or online payment applications then these could enable malicious or accidental actions of external attackers or employees to expose a company to financial loss, regulatory breaches or negative publicity.

Adopting a proactive approach to Application Security testing enables you to reduce your risk and protect clients and users from fraud. The aim is to identify poor coding and discover flaws in programming which would enable an unauthorised user to access the application and use it maliciously. Application Security Testing should be undertaken by organisations who wish to ensure the integrity and security of systems.

Why work with MWR InfoSecurity?

In the past year, MWR InfoSecurity's Application Testing Team has achieved a 82% success rate in breaching applications.

The MWR InfoSecurity Application Security Testing team is made up entirely of highly skilled and experienced programmers who can quickly identify security flaws within applications.

During an application test we use guidelines from OWASP and OSSTTM to attempt to subvert system code and force it to carry out actions outside usual operational constraints. For example, we might try to break into the system using different authentication mechanisms, attempt to release confidential information, or examine client-side code. Other tests might include hidden field manipulation, SQL injection, examinations of application to application interaction, parameter manipulation, protocol analysis of application network traffic, cross site scripting, or password cracking.

Following a comprehensive and methodical test, we provide our clients with a straight forward and easy to comprehend report which includes recommendations and guidance to reduce risks.