Our hacker mindset
We use ingenious cyber experts who think like a hacker and are up to date with all the latest sophisticated threats.
Red Teaming
Strengthen your defences with a targeted cyber attack simulation
Protecting your people, processes and technology
The key to having the most robust security is testing your defences through the mindset of a cyber-criminal, and our ingenious red teaming experts know all the latest tricks of the trade.
We combine tactics such as physical security testing, social engineering and human manipulation to carry out a simulated real-world cyber attack targeting your people, processes and technology. We assess your defences, determine your weak spots and recommend how to strengthen your defences.
How you can benefit from red teaming
Improved security posture after identifying and remediating weaknesses in your setup.
Safeguard your organisation’s infrastructure and critical data.
Strengthen your defences against targeted threats.
Test and improve your organisation’s resilience to cyber attacks.
Enables you to plan future investments and hiring strategies to cover the areas of greatest need.
Satisfy any regulatory compliance with quality assurance around your security systems from red teaming assessments.
30% OF BREACHES ARE CAUSED BY A COMPANY’S OWN EMPLOYEES*
86% OF BUSINESSES REPORT EXPERIENCING A PHISHING ATTACK**
98% OF ATTACKS ARE SUCCESSFUL BECAUSE OF PHISHING
95% OF BREACHES ARE CAUSED BY HUMAN ERROR
Why choose A&O IT Group for red team security
Expert consultants
Our industry-leading CREST-accredited team has over 20 years’ experience in the business.
Bespoke approach
Every business is different and so is our approach. We take the time to really understand your needs and then formulate the best plan to suit them.
Breadth of experience
We work across a wide range of industries and for everyone from global organisations to SMBs.
Intelligent reporting
After our outcome-focused assessments, we provide a bespoke and easy-to-understand report with remediation advice and threat protection strategies.
360° Overview
You can rest assured in the knowledge we'll provide a holistic view of your organisation's overall security posture, leaving no stone unturned.
How it works
Our 5-step red team security process
Step 1 – Scoping & reconnaissance
After we fully define the project scope, we begin reconnaissance which may include information gathering via OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) and Physical Reconnaissance.
Step 3 – Covert attack phase
Putting all your defences to the test, we work hard to obtain a foothold within your organisation, trying to take advantage of the vulnerabilities discovered earlier.
Step 5 – Debriefing
Our clear and comprehensive report pinpoints how your business – the people, networks, process and applications – performed. Advice will be provided on how best to remediate and mitigate risks.
Step 2 – Planning & strategy
Now potential vulnerabilities have been identified, we formulate the best plan of attack.
Step 4 – Internal recon
Lateral movement across your internal network to gain access and carry out data exfiltration.
Our red teaming services
USB Drop Attack
We place a payload on a USB stick and drop multiple copies around the local area. We then track whether any of these USB sticks have been picked up and plugged into a computer.
RFID Cloning
Consultants will attempt to clone the RFID access card of an employee to gain entry to secure areas.
Tailgating
We try to enter a secured area without appropriate access. This could be moving quickly through a barrier before it closes or encouraging an authorised person to hold the door open as we enter, perhaps, carrying a heavy box.
Physical Penetration Testing
As well as looking for ways to enter the client’s premises without authorisation, we also report issues such as insufficient CCTV coverage, insecure locks and windows.
Covert Entry and Biometric Bypass
Similar to RFID cloning, where we try to gain covert entry into a building. Biometric Bypass involves looking for ways to bypass security on fingerprint or other biometric devices.
APT Emulation
Using a highly targeted approach, we attempt to simulate the methods of a particular Advanced Persistent Threat Group, based on client requirements.
Social Engineering
With a broad scope, we attempt to breach security by exploiting the employees of an organisation, trying to convince them to share passwords or sensitive information or give us unauthorised entry into a building.
Penetration Testing Assessment
A penetration test is an authorised simulated attack on networks, applications and systems with the aim of evaluating the security posture using the same tools and techniques an attacker may use.
FAQs
What is the difference between pen testing and red teaming?
A penetration test is a focused form of cyber security assessment designed to identify as many vulnerabilities as possible over a short period of time, often just a few days. Pen tests are usually performed to assess specific areas such as networks and web applications. A red team operation is an extended form of engagement conducted over a period of weeks and designed to achieve a set objective such as data exfiltration. These operations follow a black-box methodology to ensure they accurately reflect the approach of genuine attackers.
How soon can you start my assessment?
Once everything has been agreed, our typical lead time is 10 working days.
Do I need a red team assessment?
Hackers and cyber criminals target organisations of all types and sizes, so it’s vital that you conduct these exercises from time to time. Red teaming is the only way to test every layer of your security defences, including technologies, processes and people.
Who in my organisation will know about the red team exercise?
For maximum effectiveness, the fewer people who are aware that a test is taking place, the better. Typically, the test will be authorised by someone at C-Level or Director level within your organisation.
Could a red team operation cause any damage or disruption?
Unlike genuine cyber-attacks, red team operations are designed to be non-destructive and non-disruptive. By choosing a CREST-accredited provider of ethical hacking services, you can be sure that all engagements will be carried out in line with pre-agreed rules of engagement and to the highest standards.
What is the difference between red team, blue team and purple team?
Red teams are attack-minded, simulating how a possible hacker would attack cybersecurity defences. Blue Teams are more defence minded. They architect and maintain the protective internal cyber security infrastructure. A purple team is designed to enhance the information sharing between—and the ultimate effectiveness of—an organisation's Red and Blue teams.
Explore more from our Cyber Security solutions
Take a step back
Red teaming allows you to see how your security looks from the outside, so you can prepare the best defence for your business.
Book Your Free ConsultationCall us on +44 (0) 1344 948 888
*https://enterprise.verizon.com/resources/reports/dbir/
**https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/cyber-security-breaches-survey-2020/cyber-security-breaches-survey-2020