Choosing the Right Security Evaluation: Audit or Pentest

If you get into the offensive physical security sphere, there will be, broadly speaking, two main categories that you will often jump between. Those being physical security auditing, and penetration testing.

These are the two primary methods for evaluating the efficacy of physical security measures are physical penetration tests (often referred to as "black / red team engagements") and physical security audits. Each approach has distinct methodologies, objectives, and outcomes, making them suitable for different organizational needs and circumstances. This blog post delves into the pros and cons of both methods to help organizations decide which security evaluation is best suited for their needs.

Differentiating Between Physical Security Audits and Penetration Tests

Physical Security Audits are primarily diagnostic. They are overtly conducted with the full knowledge and cooperation of all staff members involved. Auditors systematically review all existing security measures, policies, and procedures to ensure that every component of the physical security system aligns with best practices and meets the organization’s security requirements. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities and provide recommendations for improvements, covering the entirety of the facility’s security apparatus. These audits are relatively quick, typically taking about 3 to 5 days, and require fewer personnel, usually only 1 or 2 auditors.

Physical Penetration Tests (Black Team Engagements), on the other hand, are dynamic and simulate a real-life breach of the security setup. Conducted covertly, they aim to test how well an organization’s security team can detect and respond to an intrusion. Penetration testers use tactics and methods that a real attacker might employ, attempting to exploit any vulnerabilities in physical barriers, surveillance systems, and even human elements of security. This type of testing is more resource-intensive, requiring 2 to 4 testers and lasting around two weeks. It offers practical insights into the effectiveness of the security measures under actual attack scenarios, though it may not comprehensively cover all aspects due to its covert nature.

In essence, while an audit provides a complete and transparent review of all security measures, a penetration test evaluates the practical robustness of these measures under the stress of an undetected attack. Both are crucial for a well-rounded security strategy but serve different purposes and yield different insights into the organization's security posture.

Strategic Implementation of Security Evaluations