A university's network was vulnerable to cyberattacks, threatening the security of student and faculty data. They needed a thorough assessment to secure their digital environment.
We performed network and web application penetration testing, focusing on securing personal data and research information. Our goal was to identify and address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.
Network Scanning: We utilized Nmap to conduct comprehensive scans of the university's network, identifying open ports, running services, and potential entry points for attackers.
Web Application Testing: Using Burp Suite Pro, we performed detailed security testing on the university's web applications, identifying vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and insecure direct object references.
Traffic Analysis: We deployed Wireshark to monitor network traffic, analyzing data packets for signs of abnormal or malicious activity and identifying potential security breaches.
Custom Exploits: We developed custom scripts to simulate specific attack scenarios, targeting identified vulnerabilities to test their exploitability and potential impact.
Password Security Audit: We conducted a thorough audit of password policies and practices, identifying weak and reused passwords. We used tools like John the Ripper to test the strength of user passwords.
Configuration Review: We reviewed the configuration of network devices and servers, identifying misconfigurations that could be exploited by attackers. This included checking for default passwords, unnecessary open ports, and outdated software.
Phishing Simulation: We conducted a phishing simulation to test the university's awareness and response to social engineering attacks, identifying areas for improvement in user education and response protocols.
We uncovered several critical vulnerabilities, including weak passwords, outdated software, and misconfigured network devices. Our detailed report provided actionable recommendations to enhance security. The university implemented our suggestions, resulting in a secured network, protected personal and academic data, and a safe digital environment for students and staff.
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