Web Application Penetration Testing

Web Application Penetration Testing

Web Application Resilience Testing

Web application penetration testing is a security assessment process that simulates real-world attacks to identify vulnerabilities in the application layer. The goal is not only to verify functionality but primarily to determine whether the application allows unauthorized access, data manipulation, or compromises the confidentiality and availability of information.

For regulated organizations, particularly in the financial sector, this testing is an essential part of meeting European regulatory requirements such as DORA and NIS2, which emphasize the continuous identification and management of cyber risks throughout the entire application lifecycle.

Why test web applications?

Static security alone is not enough – application resilience must also be verified through controlled attacks in realistic conditions.

Benefit Description
Simulation of real attacks Verification of resilience against SQL injection, XSS, path traversal, or CSRF.
Application security verification Testing access control, input validation, session management, and encryption.
Detection of configuration issues Analysis of HTTP header settings, CORS policies, or insufficient API protection.
Business logic verification Identification of application logic abuse – for example unauthorized discounts or transfers.
Identification of human factors Weak administrative passwords, unlocked testing accounts, and other risky behavior.


What requirements does DORA set for web application penetration testing?

Under the DORA framework, web application testing falls under “basic testing,” meaning mandatory routine security verification of systems supporting important business functions. Requirements include:

  • Regular testing at least once per year, or before the deployment of a new major application version.

  • Documentation of findings and remediation recommendations, including subsequent verification (retesting) and approval by security management.

  • Inclusion of third parties, if they participate in the development, management, or operation of the application (e.g. outsourced development or cloud hosting).


What are the requirements for testing teams?

DORA emphasizes that application penetration tests must be conducted by qualified and independent experts with experience in application security. Key requirements include:

  • Advanced knowledge of web technologies and application security.

  • Experience with application testing tools (e.g. Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, Postman, SQLmap).

  • Ability to simulate real-world attacks (such as XSS, SQL injection, IDOR, CSRF, and session hijacking).

  • Experience with forensic outputs and reporting of incidents and findings in line with regulatory framework requirements.

  • Independence of the testing team from development teams, IT operations, and infrastructure providers.

How does testing work in practice?

01

Defining the testing scope

Definition of the target application, functionalities, interfaces (frontend, REST API) and the testing type (authenticated/unauthenticated, black/grey/white box).

02

Technical scenario preparation

Selection of tools, methodologies, and techniques based on the technology, architecture, and nature of the web application.

03

Execution of simulated attacks

Testing from the attacker’s perspective (SQL injection, XSS, authentication bypass, unauthorized access, business logic abuse).

04

Recording and analysis of results

Evaluation of impact and likelihood of exploitation, prioritization of vulnerabilities according to the CVSS methodology.

05

Reporting and recommendations

Technical report with detailed findings, impacts, and a management summary for leadership.

06

Follow-up actions

Consultations, recommendations for code or architecture improvements, and possible retesting after remediation measures are implemented.

Why work with BDO?

BDO provides Wi-Fi network penetration testing as part of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. We help organizations identify and remediate technical weaknesses before they can be exploited by real attackers. Our approach combines manual testing, scripted automation, and expertise in real-world attack techniques.

  • Regulatory framework expertise
    We understand the requirements of DORA and NIS2 and can tailor testing so that the results can be used for both supervision and audits. We help establish a testing strategy and ensure alignment with other testing types (TLPT, penetration testing).
  • Independence and credibility
    As an independent consulting firm, we do not develop our own technologies and provide truly objective assessments. Working with BDO is a clear signal of quality and trust for regulators and clients.


Certified team with expert experience
Our specialists hold certifications such as OSCP, CRTP, eCPPT, BSCP, CEH, CRT, CPSA, CISSP, CCISO and others. They have experience testing large banks, insurance companies, and ICT providers.

CISO CISSP OSCP eCPPT PenTest RedTeam CEH CREST BURPSuite

Main contacts

Martin Hořický
Martin Hořický
Manager • CISO
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Marek Kovalčík
Partner
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