#USA #San Francisco #Picus Security #Breach Simulation #Penetration Testing

Picus Security Enhances Cybersecurity with Automated Penetration Testing

Picus Security, based in San Francisco, has made strides in the cybersecurity arena by unveiling exciting improvements to its Attack Path Validation (APV) product. The latest version offers security teams a seamless experience with automated penetration testing that is both precise and continuous, specifically designed to help identify critical security vulnerabilities while minimizing operational disruptions and reducing the extensive hours usually allocated to threat analysis.

This innovative APV combines effective techniques with Breach and Attack Simulation (BAS) technology, furnishing a sophisticated toolkit for enterprises aiming to enhance their defenses against cyber threats. Notably, the new Picus APV not only uncovers vital risks but also enables security professionals to trace and validate exposure paths that malicious actors could exploit. Unlike conventional penetration testing options, which often produce an overwhelming number of alerts and false positives, Picus APV operates with a focus on delivering actionable insights to improve threat readiness.

The efficacy of Picus APV lies in its ability to mimic genuine attack strategies employed by cybercriminals, such as lateral movement within networks, data exfiltration, and behaviors commonly associated with ransomware attacks. This stealthy approach shields testing activities from premature detection, thus resulting in a more authentic reflection of potential breach scenarios. One of the paramount features of this solution is its commitment to safe testing practices; harmful exploits are not executed in production environments, which mitigates risks like system unavailability or network outages.

The operational efficiency of Picus APV is further enhanced by its ability to automate continuous assessments, allowing it to be scheduled to run in the background without hindering daily operations. This functionality not only saves time for security operations teams but also bolsters the visibility of critical vulnerabilities between regular assessments, ensuring ongoing vigilance and a proactive security posture.

Andrea Licciardi, Senior Cybersecurity Manager at MAIRE Group, notes, "Since implementing Picus APV, we have significantly improved our proactive defense capabilities. The automated pentesting features are crucial for swiftly pinpointing security gaps, which enhances our overall threat readiness. The platform is adaptable to our specific needs, cementing its role as a vital asset in our cyber resilience journey."

Analysts from Gartner® emphasize the necessity of comprehensive validation processes that integrate various technical assessments including penetration testing, BAS, and attack path mapping. This multifaceted approach to security alignment forms the core of Picus’s strategy, enabling them to set themselves apart as leaders in Exposure Validation solutions. "We are unique in this space, offering an all-encompassing validation solution that is both innovative and essential for modern cybersecurity needs," remarks Volkan Ertürk, co-founder and CTO of Picus.

As organizations grapple with escalating cyber risks, the need for tools that deliver reliable and effective security solutions is paramount. The Picus APV exemplifies a forward-thinking approach, combining the intricacies of automated pentesting with comprehensive attack path mapping in a user-friendly, open platform. As cybersecurity threats evolve, adaptive and intelligent solutions like Picus’s are critical in safeguarding organizations against sophisticated attacks.

The updated Picus APV is set to be available in January 2025, poised to become an essential component for any security-conscious enterprise looking to elevate their defensive strategies.

Conclusion

The advancements from Picus Security are not merely incremental; they represent a substantial leap in enabling businesses to automate and refine their cybersecurity operations while significantly reducing the risk of breaches. As highlighted in the Fast-Track Cybersecurity Innovation report, tools like Picus APV are becoming indispensable for organizations aiming to maintain robust security postures amid an increasingly complex threat landscape.