Physical Penetration Testing
Core fundamentals and methodology from engagement to documentation
Initial Client Engagement
The foundation of any physical pentest begins with understanding the client's needs, scope, and objectives. This phase establishes the legal framework and defines success criteria.
- Scope definition and boundary establishment
- Rules of engagement and legal considerations
- Timeline and resource allocation
- Emergency contact procedures and escalation paths
- Success metrics and deliverable expectations
Critical Requirement
All physical penetration testing must be explicitly authorised in writing before any testing begins. Unauthorised testing is illegal and unethical.
Reconnaissance & Intelligence Gathering
Understanding the target environment through passive observation and research. This phase focuses on gathering information without direct interaction with security systems.
- Physical layout analysis and architectural assessment
- Security control identification and mapping
- Personnel behavior patterns and schedules
- Entry/exit points and traffic flow analysis
- Technology stack and security vendor identification
Threat Modeling & Attack Planning
Developing realistic attack scenarios based on gathered intelligence. This phase translates observations into actionable testing strategies while maintaining ethical boundaries.
- Attack vector prioritisation based on likelihood and impact
- Resource requirements and tool selection
- Contingency planning for unexpected scenarios
- Safety protocols and damage prevention measures
- Evidence collection and documentation strategies
Active Testing Execution
The hands-on phase where theoretical vulnerabilities are validated through careful, controlled testing. Focus on methodical approach while minimizing disruption.
- Physical bypass testing of locks and access controls
- Social engineering scenarios and human factor assessment
- Electronic security system evaluation
- Credential harvesting and access escalation testing
- Real-time documentation and evidence preservation
Evidence Documentation
Comprehensive recording of findings, methodologies, and impact assessment. Documentation must be detailed enough for replication and remediation guidance.
- Photographic and video evidence with timestamps
- Step-by-step methodology documentation
- Tool and technique specifications
- Time investment and difficulty assessment
- Potential impact analysis and risk scoring
Risk Assessment & Prioritisation
Analysis of discovered vulnerabilities in the context of business impact and likelihood of exploitation. This phase translates technical findings into business language.
- Vulnerability severity classification
- Business impact assessment
- Exploit difficulty and skill level analysis
- Compliance gap identification
- Cost-benefit analysis for remediation efforts
Remediation Recommendations
Practical, implementable solutions for identified vulnerabilities. Recommendations should be prioritised, realistic, and considerate of operational requirements.
- Technical controls and procedural improvements
- Cost-effective security enhancement strategies
- Implementation timeline and resource requirements
- Training and awareness program recommendations
- Ongoing monitoring and validation suggestions
Final Reporting & Knowledge Transfer
Comprehensive documentation delivery with executive summary, technical details, and actionable remediation guidance. Clear communication ensures findings drive meaningful security improvements.
- Executive summary with business impact focus
- Detailed technical findings with reproduction steps
- Photographic evidence and supporting documentation
- Prioritised remediation roadmap
- Follow-up testing recommendations and timelines
Core Principles
Authorisation First
Never conduct testing without explicit written permission and clear scope boundaries.
Minimal Impact
Prove vulnerabilities exist without causing operational disruption or damage.
Systematic Methodology
Follow repeatable processes that can be documented and verified by others.
Evidence-Based
Every finding must be supported by concrete evidence and reproduction steps.
Client-Focused
Recommendations must be practical, implementable, and aligned with business objectives.
Continuous Learning
Each engagement provides opportunities to refine methodology and improve outcomes.