Mastering Exposure Management: Key Insights from 500 CISOs

TL;DR

Pentera’s 2025 State of Pentesting report reveals:

• Key assets targeted by attackers.
• Progress areas for security teams.
• Often overlooked exposures
• Strategies to minimize breach impact

Introduction

In the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, penetration testing (pentesting) has become an essential practice for organizations seeking to fortify their defenses. Pentera’s 2025 State of Pentesting report provides valuable insights into the critical aspects of exposure management, highlighting the perspectives of 500 Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). This article delves into the key findings from the report, emphasizing the importance of focusing on reducing breach impact rather than merely counting breaches.

Key Assets Targeted by Attackers

Understanding which assets are most frequently targeted by attackers is crucial for effective exposure management. The report identifies several high-value assets that are prime targets for cyber threats. These include:

• Sensitive Data Storage Systems: Databases and cloud storage solutions containing confidential information.
• Network Infrastructure: Routers, switches, and firewalls that control data flow.
• User Credentials: Access points such as login pages and authentication systems.
• Business-Critical Applications: Software essential for day-to-day operations.

Progress Areas for Security Teams

The report highlights several areas where security teams have made significant progress:

• Incident Response: Improved response times and more effective containment strategies.
• Threat Detection: Enhanced capabilities in identifying and mitigating threats.
• Employee Training: Increased awareness and training programs for employees.

Often Overlooked Exposures

Despite advancements, certain exposures continue to fly under the radar. These include:

• Legacy Systems: Older systems that are still in use but lack modern security features.
• Third-Party Vendors: External partners with access to internal systems.
• Shadow IT: Unauthorized IT systems and solutions used within the organization.

Strategies to Minimize Breach Impact

To effectively reduce the impact of breaches, organizations should focus on the following strategies:

• Regular Pentesting: Conduct frequent and comprehensive penetration tests.
• Continuous Monitoring: Implement continuous monitoring systems to detect and respond to threats in real-time.
• Incident Response Planning: Develop and regularly update incident response plans.
• Employee Education: Provide ongoing training and education for employees on cybersecurity best practices.

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Conclusion

The insights from Pentera’s 2025 State of Pentesting report underscore the importance of a proactive approach to exposure management. By focusing on reducing breach impact and addressing often overlooked exposures, organizations can significantly enhance their cybersecurity posture. The report serves as a valuable guide for CISOs and security teams aiming to stay ahead of evolving threats.

Additional Resources

For further insights, check:

• National Cyber Security Centre
• Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency