Businesses increasingly migrate to cloud-based solutions for storage, applications, and critical functions. While the cloud offers scalability and agility, it also introduces new security challenges. Cloud penetration testing is a crucial defence mechanism for proactively identifying and addressing these vulnerabilities.

What is Cloud penetration testing?

Cloud pen testing replicates a controlled cyberattack on your cloud environment, mimicking the tactics of malicious actors. It systematically probes for weaknesses in your cloud infrastructure, applications, and configurations. Cloud penetration testing helps to identify exploitable vulnerabilities before hackers do, allowing you to patch them and strengthen your overall security posture.

Based on the threats, test cases are added into the cloud pen testing methodology to ensure comprehensive coverage for the cloud environment in scope. This could be AWS, GCP, Azure or other tenancy-specific scenarios.

Why do you need cloud pen testing?

Any organisation leveraging cloud services can benefit from the cloud penetration testing process. Here are some indicators that a test is essential:

• You are migrating sensitive data or applications to the cloud.
• You haven’t conducted a security assessment and need to know your blind spots.
• You suspect a potential security breach in your cloud environment.
• You are complying with industry regulations that mandate security testing.

Scope of cloud penetration testing

Cloud pen testing can cover a wide range of areas, including:

• Cloud Storage Services: Assessing security controls and access to data stored in the cloud.
• Cloud Applications: Identifying vulnerabilities in web applications hosted in the cloud.
• Cloud Infrastructure: Testing the security of virtual machines, networks, and other cloud resources.
• Identity and Access Management (IAM): Evaluating user access controls and permissions to ensure only authorised personnel can access sensitive data and systems.
• API Security: Verifying the security of application programming interfaces (APIs), which attackers often target.

Pros of cloud pen testing

Identifying Vulnerabilities

A pen test is like a thorough inspection, uncovering any cracks in the foundation, loose windows, or weak locks (vulnerabilities) that could allow intruders to gain access. By identifying these weaknesses, you can fix them quickly, preventing a potential break-in (data breach). Pen testing tools are like high-tech magnifying glasses, spotting even the most minor vulnerabilities before they become big problems.

Improved Security Posture

The process identifies weaknesses and helps you improve your security posture by strengthening existing measures.

Increased Reliability

Regular pen testing demonstrates your commitment to security and building trust with customers and partners. Many SaaS companies are now establishing processes by adding detailed information on their website to show their proactive approach.

Regulatory Compliance

It helps ensure your cloud environment meets industry-specific security standards, avoiding potential legal issues and fines. Modern regulations are catching up with detailed requirements and ensuring businesses comply with the requirements with active evidence.

Cons of cloud pen testing

Cloud storage offers convenience and scalability but introduces new security risks. Here are some key challenges that organisations might face:

Limited Visibility

Some cloud services use third-party data centres, making understanding where your data resides and how it’s secured changing. This lack of transparency can be a concern, as you might be unaware of potential security vulnerabilities in the underlying infrastructure.

Shared Resources

Cloud environments are known for shared resources among multiple users. This can pose a challenge during testing, primarily if segmentation (isolation) between accounts isn’t implemented.

For instance, if your organisation needs to comply with PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), which mandates strong security measures for handling cardholder data, all users sharing resources on the cloud platform, including the provider itself, would need to be PCI DSS compliant as well.

Policy Restrictions

Each cloud service provider has its own set of rules regarding penetration testing. This trend has changed with significant providers, i.e. AWS and Azure, allowing pen testing without explicit authorisations; however, it is very much there for many providers. These policies might restrict the scope of testing, limiting what endpoints and types of tests can be conducted. This can affect the thoroughness of the testing process and potentially leave some areas untested.

Scalability and Scope

The vast scale of cloud environments adds another layer of complexity. This scope may include user software (like content management systems and databases) and the provider’s (virtual machine) software. Also, encryption can further complicate the process if the organisation isn’t willing to share encryption keys with the test’s auditors.

Cloud Penetration Testing Prerequisites

Before conducting cloud penetration testing, ensure you have the following in place:

• Clearly defined scope: Determine which cloud services and resources will be tested.
• Authorisation: Obtain proper permissions from cloud providers and internal stakeholders to ensure a smooth and legal testing process.
• Testing environment: Ideally, create a separate testing environment to minimise disruption to production systems.
• Communication plan: Establish a clear communication plan regarding the testing process and results with all involved parties.

How do we perform cloud penetration testing?

Cloud penetration testing is a critical process for safeguarding your cloud environment. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps involved:

Step 1: Understanding Cloud Provider Policies

Every cloud provider has its own set of rules governing penetration testing. These policies outline which services and activities are permissible or restricted during testing. Before diving in, it’s essential to identify the specific cloud services used by your organisation and determine which ones the provider allows for testing. Resources like Microsoft’s Azure cloud pen testing approach can offer valuable insights into their policies.

Step 2: Crafting a Cloud Penetration Testing Plan

This phase involves gathering information and planning the testing approach. Here’s what it entails:

• Client Communication: Establish clear communication with the client to define the testing timeframe (start and end dates). This is crucial for scheduling the test and ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations. Obtain documentation, diagrams, etc, that would help you understand the business context and architecture of the environment in the scope.
• Gathering Client Information: Request a sneak peek of the cloud platform, including details about URLs to be tested, the underlying cloud architecture, and its functionalities. This information provides a solid foundation for crafting the testing strategy.

Step 3: Selecting Cloud Penetration Testing Tools

The right tools are essential for simulating real-world attacks. Attackers frequently leverage automated processes to exploit weaknesses, like brute-forcing passwords or finding direct data access APIs.

Doesn’t the use of tools make it an automatic pen test?

No. Tools are used in both automated and manual pen testing procedures for efficiency and thoroughness during the testing.

It’s not always fancy software, but tools are considered an arsenal with many custom scripts or systems tailored for cloud pen testing.

Step 4: Analysing the Results

Penetration testing is only valuable if you analyse the findings and responses thoroughly. After utilising automated tools and conducting manual tests, meticulously examine all the collected data. Distinguish between genuine vulnerabilities (true positives) and expected cloud behaviour (false positives).

Document any vulnerabilities identified and prioritise them based on severity for subsequent reporting. This step leverages your expertise and knowledge of cloud environments to make informed decisions.

💡Suggested Read: How to Write a Better Penetration Testing Report

Cloud services that can be considered for penetration testing

Cloud pen testing can be conducted on various popular cloud platforms, including:

• Amazon Web Services (AWS)
• Microsoft Azure
• Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
• IBM Cloud
• Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI)
• Private cloud by IT MSPs

These platforms often offer specific tools and guidance for secure cloud deployments and penetration testing.

Cloud pentesting methodologies

Cloud penetration testing methodologies provide a structured framework for conducting thorough and realistic security assessments of your cloud environment. Here’s a breakdown of some popular methods:

OSSTMM (Open-Source Security Testing Methodology Manual)

OSSTMM offers a comprehensive and adaptable guide for penetration testers, employing a scientific approach. This methodology ensures a consistent and accurate testing process.

OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project)

Developed and maintained by a global security community, OWASP reflects the latest threats and vulnerabilities. It goes beyond application vulnerabilities and encompasses process logic errors for a holistic assessment.

NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology)

NIST provides a specific cloud pen testing methodology tailored for improved test accuracy. This framework is valuable for organisations of all sizes and sectors seeking a reliable approach to cloud security assessments.

PTES (Penetration Testing Execution Standards)

Developed by information security professionals, PTES is designed to be a modern and inclusive cloud penetration testing that is standard and applicable to other IT assets. Its goal is to raise awareness of what businesses can expect from a thorough pen test and ensure consistent quality across engagements.

Choosing the most appropriate methodology will depend on your specific needs and the complexity of your cloud environment. Cyphere a qualified penetration testing service provider can help you select the best fit for your organisation.

Key cloud security threats

Here’s a look at some of the most common vulnerabilities that can expose your cloud environment to attacks:

Server Misconfigurations

Misconfigured cloud servers are a significant security concern, with S3 bucket misconfigurations particularly common. A prime example is the Capital One data leak, where a misconfigured S3 bucket exposed the personal information of millions of people. Common server misconfigurations include:

• Improper access control permissions: Granting excessive access rights to users or resources can create security gaps.
• Unencrypted data: Leaving data unencrypted at rest or in transit makes it vulnerable to interception by attackers.
• Blurry lines between private and public data: Failing to define and segregate private and public data clearly can lead to accidental exposure of sensitive information.

Insecure APIs

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) act as bridges between different applications, enabling them to exchange data. However, weak API security can lead to devastating data breaches. Examples of API attacks are not uncommon, such as Naz. API, Dropbox, Beetle. 

Improper HTTP methods (PUT, POST, DELETE) within APIs can allow attackers to upload malware or delete your data. Additionally, inadequate access controls and a lack of input validation (sanitisation) in APIs create exploitable entry points for hackers. Cloud penetration testing can help identify and address these vulnerabilities before exploiting them.

Outdated Software

Outdated software often contains known security vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Patching software promptly is crucial, but some vendors lack streamlined update processes, or users might turn off automatic updates. This creates a window of vulnerability for attackers using automated scanners to identify outdated and insecure systems.

Weak Credentials

Weak or easily guessable passwords make your cloud accounts prime targets for brute-force attacks. Attackers can leverage automated tools to try various password combinations until they gain access systematically. Password reuse across different accounts further increases the risk. Cloud penetration testing can simulate these attacks to highlight the importance of strong password management practices.

Insecure Coding Practices

Some businesses might prioritise rapid development over secure coding practices in pursuing cost efficiency. This can lead to software riddled with vulnerabilities like SQL injection (SQLi), Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF).

These vulnerabilities, often categorised within the OWASP Top 10, are frequently exploited by attackers to compromise web applications and cloud services.

Japanese automaker Toyota disclosed that a misconfigured cloud environment exposed approximately 260,000 customers’ data online. This incident affected customers in Japan and specific customers in Asia and Oceania.

What are the best practices for preventing cloud security breaches in 2024?

Here are some essential best practices to fortify your cloud security posture and minimise the risk of breaches:

Continuous Vulnerability Scanning

Effective cloud pentesting tools should incorporate ongoing vulnerability scans. These scans should leverage various resources to identify weaknesses, including the most popular checklists like these:

• CVE databases list known Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) to identify potential exploits.
• Threat intelligence: Security insights and threat data can help pinpoint emerging vulnerabilities.
• OWASP Top 10: Regularly checking against the OWASP Top 10 web application security risks helps address standard coding practices that lead to vulnerabilities.
• SANS 25 Critical Security Controls: This list outlines essential security measures to mitigate common security risks.

Beyond identifying vulnerabilities, these scans should also explore areas behind logins to detect potential business logic flaws within your applications.

Regular Penetration Testing

Regular penetration testing is a critical security measure, both for cloud service providers and their customers. These tests simulate real-world attacks, identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities within your security systems. The results of these tests detail the discovered weaknesses and provide recommendations for remediation before attackers can exploit them.

Cloud-Based Firewalls for your cloud environment

Traditional firewalls can be complemented by cloud-based firewalls hosted within your cloud environment. These firewalls offer the advantage of scalability, adapting to the evolving security needs of your organisation.

Data Encryption

Data security is paramount. Encryption safeguards data at rest (stored) and in transit (being transmitted) using protocols like Transport Layer Security (TLS). This encryption ensures that only authorised parties can access your data, maintaining confidentiality.

Intrusion Detection

Employing security tools with robust intrusion detection capabilities that have monitoring and alerting capabilities is essential. This has come down to a good endpoint controls strategy paired with perimeter-level defence, whether software firewall or at the perimeter level.

Compliance with Regulations

Cloud penetration testing can also help ensure compliance with relevant data protection regulations such as SOC2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and GDPR. These regulations mandate specific security measures to safeguard sensitive data. Regular testing helps verify adherence to these regulations and avoids potential legal repercussions.

By implementing these best practices and conducting regular penetration testing, you can significantly strengthen your cloud security posture and proactively mitigate security risks.

Few of the best Cloud pentesting tools we use

Cloud pen testing requires a variety of tools to assess vulnerabilities effectively. Here are some popular options that we use:

• Nmap: This free, open-source tool maps your cloud environment, identifying open ports and potential weaknesses.
• Metasploit: This comprehensive framework, created by Rapid7, empowers testers to develop, test, and launch simulated attacks to uncover exploitable weaknesses.
• Burp Suite: This all-in-one toolkit offers functionalities like pen testing, scanning, and vulnerability analysis for web applications, including those hosted in the cloud.

How Does Cloud Penetration Testing Differ from Penetration Testing?

Regular penetration testing focuses on traditional IT infrastructure, while cloud penetration testing targets cloud environments and their unique security challenges.

Can private cloud environments help avoid security breaches?

Due to increased control and isolation, private clouds can offer enhanced security compared to public clouds. However, they are not immune to breaches. Misconfigurations, internal threats, and zero-day vulnerabilities can still pose risks. Regular security assessments and adherence to best practices are crucial even in private cloud environments.

How much does cloud penetration testing cost in the UK?

The cost of cloud penetration testing in the UK varies depending on your cloud environment’s scope, complexity, and specific requirements. Generally, smaller assessments might start around £3,000, costing more for medium-sized scopes, while more extensive and more complex projects could range from £10,000 to £30,000 or more. It’s best to consult with reputable cybersecurity providers like Cyphere for a tailored quote based on your specific needs. This would ensure you can pick and choose to make informed decisions about spending your budget on the best ROI.

Here’s how Cyphere can be your trusted partner in cloud security.

Cyphere, a CREST-approved cybersecurity services provider, offers comprehensive cloud penetration testing solutions to empower businesses of all sizes. Our security specialists have the expertise and experience to navigate the complexities of cloud environments and conduct thorough testing that adheres to industry best practices.

• Tailored Testing Approach: We work closely with you to understand your specific cloud environment, security requirements, and compliance needs. This collaborative approach ensures a customised testing plan that effectively addresses your vulnerabilities.
• Experienced Testers: Our team comprises highly skilled and certified penetration testers who stay abreast of the latest hacking techniques and emerging threats in the cloud landscape.
• Advanced Tools & Methodologies: We leverage industry-leading cloud penetration testing tools and methodologies like OSSTMM, OWASP, PTES, and NIST to deliver comprehensive assessments.
• Detailed Reporting & Remediation: Following a rigorous testing process, we provide a clear and actionable report outlining all identified vulnerabilities, their severity levels, and recommendations for remediation.
• Continuous Security Monitoring: Beyond one-time testing, Cyphere can offer ongoing vulnerability management and security monitoring services to identify and mitigate potential threats proactively.