Breach and attack simulation

BAS tools work by executing simulated attacks against an organization's IT infrastructure and assets. These simulated attacks are designed to mimic real-world threats and techniques used by cybercriminals. The simulations test the organization's ability to detect, analyze, and respond to attacks. After running the simulations, BAS platforms generate reports that highlight areas where security controls failed to stop the simulated attacks.[1]

Organizations use BAS to validate whether security controls are working as intended. Frequent BAS testing helps benchmark security posture over time and ensure proper incident response processes are in place.BAS testing complements other security assessments like penetration testing and vulnerability scanning. It focuses more on validating security controls versus just finding flaws. The automated nature of BAS allows wider and more regular testing than manual red team exercises. BAS is often part of a continuous threat exposure management (CTEM) program.[1][2]

Key features of BAS technologies include:[1]

• Automated testing: simulations can be scheduled to run repeatedly without manual oversight.
• Threat modeling: simulations are designed based on real adversarial tactics, techniques and procedures.
• Attack surface coverage: can test internal and external-facing assets.
• Security control validation: integrates with other security tools to test efficacy.
• Reporting: identifies vulnerabilities and prioritizes remediation efforts.

Major breach attack simulation use cases include:

• Red team
• Penetration test