Red Teaming (RTE)
Unlike traditional security assessments or penetration testing, red teaming involves a more dynamic, unscripted attack mimicking the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) of actual threat actors. The primary goal is to identify and exploit weaknesses in security posture, incident response capabilities, and employee awareness.
Operators In The Dark
The U.S. government recently disclosed that the Chinese state-sponsored hacking group, known by several names including Volt Typhoon and Bronze Silhouette, has infiltrated critical infrastructure networks across the U.S. and Guam for over five years. This group, reportedly active since June 2021, targets vital sectors such as communications, energy, transportation, and water and wastewater systems. Unlike typical cyber espionage, Volt Typhoon aims to pre-position itself within IT networks to facilitate potential disruptive or destructive cyber attacks on Operational Technology (OT) assets in critical infrastructures during crises or conflicts with the U.S. This strategy of maintaining persistence and understanding the target environment suggests a calculated approach towards undermining U.S. critical infrastructure.
Red Teaming vs Penetration Testing
Red team engagements and penetration testing serve complementary roles in cybersecurity. While penetration testing focuses on identifying and exploiting specific technical vulnerabilities, red team engagements simulate real-world attacks to assess an organization's overall readiness, including technological, human, and procedural defenses. Red teaming offers a strategic view of an organization's vulnerability to sophisticated cyber threats, whereas penetration testing provides detailed insights into specific security weaknesses. Together, they form a comprehensive approach to understanding and enhancing a company's cybersecurity posture.
Take The Plunge Today
Contact us now to discuss or schedule your next red teaming exercise and transform your blue team into a well oiled unit adversaries never saw coming.
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