Cyber attacks against Indian businesses and government bodies are on the rise. In 2023, there was a notable increase in cyberattacks, resulting in more than 343 million victims. Penetration testing services in India are making efforts to reduce the number of attacks by implementing best practices and advancements.
Penetration testing is by far the best approach to strengthening your systems against internal and external threats. Only through pen testing can businesses regularly implement comprehensive security assessments of their IT infrastructure.
However, the quality and effectiveness of a test depend entirely on the reputation, capability, expertise, and experience of the service provider you choose. We will dive deeper into the qualities to look for to help you select the right pen test company.
Once you know what to look for in a penetration testing service provider, we will review the services of a few exceptional penetration testing companies in India and explain why they have made the cut as our top picks for the year.
We hope you will make the right choice for your organization’s unique security demands and protect your cyber assets through 2024 through this informative read.
Factors to Consider to Pick a Good Pentest Company in India
Let us explore some of the essential considerations to place when selecting the ideal pen test service company.
Services
The services offered by the pentester should be your first and foremost selection criteria. Before you start reading up on the offerings of numerous companies, focus inward first to identify your unique organizational security demands.
Through this reflective process, you may suspect critical areas of the infrastructure to have weak spots, identify systems and components that pose a high-level threat to your sensitive data, or spot numerous other security issues.
Keep this information in mind, or better yet, write them down however small your security concern may be. Remember, the most devastating attacks that cause businesses severe financial and reputational losses often originate from the most minor overlooked vulnerabilities. This information will be a vital consideration when you ultimately select a service provider.
Next, decide the types of penetration testing your business and its products require. The most common types of penetration testing are internal/external infrastructure penetration testing, mobile application testing, web application testing, wireless penetration testing, build and configuration review, and social engineering.
Your business may only need some of the services mentioned above, so thoroughly review your situation to identify your organizational requirements and the tools necessary to achieve them. To avail of only the services you need, you can look for companies that provide on-demand options that allow you to pick only the pen tests that are relevant to your company.
When choosing a penetration testing provider, consider features such as the ability to offer continuous penetration tests, which includes real-time monitoring and ongoing security checks. Ensure they provide compliance-focused scans to meet Indian regulations and offer detailed industry-standard reports tailored for both CXOs and developers.
Evaluate their experience and certifications, looking for recognized credentials like OSCP, CEH, or CISSP. Check for integration capabilities with your CI/CD pipeline and communication platforms. Active customer support and the ability to handle all types of tests—black box, grey box, and white box—are also crucial for a comprehensive security assessment..
Experience
A penetration test is an invasive approach that allows external testers to find system weaknesses, determine the robustness of internal controls, and support compliance with data privacy and security regulations, which require probing into your business’s systems and confidential data.
It would be best if you did not entrust such a vital assignment that can potentially jeopardize your platform and data security into inexperienced hands. It is crucial to select a service provider with an experienced team of pen testers with an excellent track record in safely handling customer systems and information with the utmost confidence.
Unfortunately, several companies today that boast a wide range of offerings lack the technical expertise and experience to maintain confidentiality and safety when they access your systems. So, as a rule of thumb, research the industry experience and test cases of potential service providers before making your decision.
Reach out to potential service providers and get your queries and concerns answered. Remember, a service provider who cannot answer your questions and concerns is probably not the right fit for you.
Pricing
While spending an exorbitant amount on your IT infrastructure security is not suggested, remember that the costs most businesses incur due to publicized high-level exploits are far greater than the preventive actions you can proactively take. With that in mind, devise your budget accordingly.
Several penetration testing companies offer competitive plans and on-demand services to enable SMEs to enhance their security posture without spending millions. At this stage, calculate a reasonable budget you are comfortable with that does not hinder other business competencies and operational productivity.
Once you do this, you can compare the various service providers’ pricing plans to identify the most suitable option.
Remember, it is always a good practice to communicate with the service provider and learn directly from them what they can do for you. Many offer bundles, deals, free trials, and on-demand services that allow you to accomplish your requirements at a feasible price.
Remember, on-demand services are vastly cheaper than the typical infrastructure, equipment, and training costs for setting up and enabling an in-house IT security team to conduct penetration tests.
Benefits of Investing in a Good Pentest Service Providing Company
While there are countless benefits of a good penetration testing service, here are some of the essential advantages that you must know:
Let us expand on these points more to have an in-depth understanding.
Immediate vulnerability detection
The best service providers use a combination of automated and manual scanning to catch vulnerabilities quickly and accurately. This tactic that combines automation and human expertise is invaluable in validating vulnerabilities while eliminating false positives and negatives.
So rest assured, an excellent penetration test service provider will be able to quickly detect vulnerabilities in your systems right from the get-go. Moreover, continuous penetration tests significantly strengthen an organization from the very first stages of testing.
Strengthen security
Initiating your first penetration test will allow you to scale your system’s security measures, identify vulnerabilities, launch exploits, validate vulnerabilities, and take remediation action. You achieve all of this by closely mimicking a real-world attack scenario which means you close security gaps that a hacker most likely would leverage to attack your systems.
It is an excellent approach to devise a security strategy that optimally protects your applications, digital assets, and data while keeping you vigilant.
Stay compliant
Most businesses are often required to achieve compliance with at least one or more of the several recognized security standards and frameworks. Some globally recognized industry standards are PCI-DSS, HIPAA, ISO 27001, and SOC 2.
Let’s say hypothetically, your business operations demand that your IT infrastructure security must comply with HIPAA and ISO 27001. In such cases, penetration testing companies conduct regular penetration tests to help you ensure and certify that your security measures are consistently compliant with the appropriate industry standard.
When there are instances of non-compliance, pen tests will assist testers in instantly rooting out the source and nature of the issue and deliver quick mitigation. It allows businesses to avoid hefty penalties, sanctions, and legal ramifications.
Improve product trust
Building trust is the best way for businesses to rise above the competition and grow. Breaking this trust can lead to devastating financial and reputational ramifications that are often nearly impossible for a company to rebuild.
The primary function and idealogy behind a penetration test are to address all security gaps, vulnerabilities, and loopholes in a product to build trust with its users. Not only does the product benefit from periodic pen tests, but it also enhances the business’s reputation as one that places customer data security as a high priority.
Better ROI
According to research, a business that suffers the recovery costs, restoration costs, reputational damage, and legal fallout from a publicized exploit can take an average of 279 days to rebound from the attack.
Scheduling penetration tests at fixed intervals during the year, when rolling out a new feature, during significant milestones, and when making changes to the infrastructure are all excellent practices for maximizing your ROI by preemptively preventing attacks and their associated costs.
Top Penetration Testing Companies in India
Now that we have a fundamental understanding of what to look out for in penetration testing companies and the advantages of pen tests, here are our top picks of the best penetration testing service companies in India.
1. SecureLayer7
SecureLayer7 is a globally renowned continuous web application penetration test company that leverages its in-house automated pen tests to quickly identify a broad range of vulnerabilities. Its services include a web application, mobile application, thick client, VoIP, on-demand, and cloud-infrastructure penetration testing.
Its strategic combination of automated and manual testing, strategic mitigation, and patch verification makes it one of the best top-tier penetration testing companies in India.
It follows a carefully designed methodology based on the successful results of multiple industry-tested and case-specific solutions. Alongside its excellent automated scanning, it additionally provides an extensive manual security testing service that identifies vulnerabilities based on industry standards, including OWASP Top Ten, PCI Compliance, and NIST 800-53.
Once completing the tests, it provides its clients with comprehensive business-oriented reports, including an executive summary, test scope, approach & methodology, critical findings summary, OWASP Top 10 summary, graphical representation of vulnerabilities, recommendations, advised prioritization, deep insights, and security recommendations.
Ultimately, SL7 performs patch verification to assess if the penetration test resolved all identified vulnerabilities, optimized security measures, and compliance issues. It offers users a free trial, and pricing plans are available upon request.
Pros
- Provides web application, mobile application, thick client, VoIP, and on-demand penetration testing.
- Provides AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Kubernetes cloud infrastructure penetration testing.
- Follows a comprehensive methodology consisting of eight strategic stages: scoping, mapping and service identification, reconnaissance and enumeration, scanning, vulnerability identification, penetration testing reporting, strategic mitigation, and verification fixing.
- Identifies vulnerabilities based on industry standards, including PCI Compliance, OWASP Top Ten, and NIST 800-53.
- Provides dynamic, easy-to-understand business reports.
- Robust automated scanners detect a broad range of known CVEs in application libraries.
- Easily integrate software.
- Generates detailed business-oriented reports and dashboards.
- Stellar 24/7 customer support.
Cons
- Price plans are not clearly available.
2. Astra Security
Astra Pentestis an excellent cloud-based vulnerability assessment and penetration testing tool company that helps businesses perform web app, cloud security, mobile app, and API penetration tests.
It identifies potential vulnerabilities and business logic errors through automated and manual pen tests. At the end of which, it provides detailed reports explaining the test cases, prioritizing vulnerabilities, and providing accurate risk assessments. Its vulnerability scanner can test for over 3000 tests, including those documented in OWASP, SANS, and more.
The basic scan-only plan costing US$999 annually per user, offers users weekly vulnerability scans, a pen test dashboard, PDF reports, and a scan behind the login. Its mid-tier plan costs US$1999 annually per user and includes everything in the lower tier, plus four expert-vetted scans, automated scans, and compliance reporting.
However, the mid-tier plan does not have manual vulnerability assessment and penetration tests (VAPT), cloud infrastructure security reviews, business-logic testing, and publicly verifiable pentest certification. These features are available only in its top-tier plan alongside everything in the lower tiers, which is at a substantial US$4999 annually per user.
Pros
- Easily integratable software
- Generates Dashboard Report
- Cloud-based solution
Cons
- Manual pen tests available only in the highest tier
- Expensive pricing plans
3. eSec Forte
eSec Forte is a penetration testing service company that provides VAPT, penetration testing (automated and manual), and vulnerability assessment services.
It helps businesses identify, validate vulnerabilities, test policy compliance violations, and test the security awareness of the IT security team in the event of a breach. Its pricing plans are available upon consultation.
Pros
- Provides security assessments to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities
- Assists with compliance
- Provides expert consultation
Cons
- The software can be complicated to navigate.
4. IndusFace
Indusface’s WAS (Web Application Scanner) uses its native web application vulnerability scanner that identifies and reports threats based on OWASP Top 10. Those who opt for their manual penetration tests can avail of the automated vulnerability scanner for free for a year.
Through Indus MAS (Mobile Application Scanner), the company provides mobile application vulnerability detection and pen testing for multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, and Windows.
Its basic pricing plan is free and includes OWASP Top 10 and SANS 25 vulnerability detection, bi-weekly automated application scanning, scans behind the authentication page, detail & remediation for five detected vulnerabilities, and an AA scan seal.
Its mid-tier pricing plan costs around US$588 per year. It includes features from the low-tier plan, unlimited automated application scans, complete vulnerability details & remediation, blacklisting checks, 5 POCs, malware scans, defacement alerts, and infrastructure vulnerability scans.
Its top tier plan, priced at US$2388, includes all the features of the lower tier plans, managed penetration testing, unlimited POCs, 24/7 customer support, and scheduled daily scans.
Pros
- Provides a 14-day free trial of its mid-tier package
- Provides zero false positives assurance through zero-day protection
- Assists with industry standards such as PCI-DSS and ISO 27001
- Provides an executive dashboard that provides necessary information
- Pricing plans are reasonable
Cons
- Does not provide mobile application penetration testing
- Does not provide business-oriented reports
5. Appsecco
Appsecco is a cybersecurity company that specializes in application security consulting, training, and managed services.
The company focuses on helping organizations build secure applications and protect their software assets from cyber threats.
Appsecco offers a wide range of services, including penetration testing, secure code review, threat modelling, security training, and security architecture review. They work with businesses of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises, and across various industries, including finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and technology.
Appsecco’s team of highly skilled security professionals helps organizations identify vulnerabilities in their applications, assess risks, and implement robust security measures to safeguard their critical assets and data. The company is known for its expertise in web application security, mobile application security, cloud security, and DevSecOps practices.
Pros
- Appsecco focuses on application security, which allows them to develop deep expertise in this specific domain. Their specialized knowledge and experience can help organizations identify and address vulnerabilities in their applications more effectively.
- Appsecco offers a wide range of services, including penetration testing, code review, threat modeling, training, and architecture review. This comprehensive approach allows organizations to address various aspects of application security in a holistic manner.
- Appsecco understands that different organizations have unique security requirements and tailors its services to meet those specific needs. This personalized approach can result in more effective and relevant security solutions for organizations.
Cons
- Appsecco’s specialized expertise and comprehensive services may come at a higher cost compared to general cybersecurity providers. Smaller organizations with limited budgets may find their services more expensive.
- Appsecco’s availability may be limited depending on their workload and client demands. Organizations may need to plan and book their services well in advance, which could be a potential constraint for urgent or time-sensitive security needs.
- Organizations that engage Appsecco for their application security may need to rely on an external provider for their security needs, which may not be suitable for organizations that prefer to have in-house security capabilities.
6. iSecurion
iSecurion is an ISO 27001:2013 certified information security consulting company that provides the best service quality, innovation, and research in the field of Information Security and Technology.
Customers can choose from a special combination of services from iSecurion that are tailored to the current information security landscape. Based on the customer’s company type and associated operations, the business-oriented approach aids in understanding the security requirements of the client.
By matching them with industry best practices and regulatory regulations, iSecurion not only finds key flaws in the client systems but also supports remediation.
These are the services that iSecurion provides: Web application security testing, mobile application security testing, apt security testing, cloud security testing, incident response and forensics, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing.
In addition to external testing, iSecureion also does an internal security assessment that, while using a similar technique, offers a fuller picture of the site security.
Various network access points that represent each logical and physical segment will normally be used for testing. Tiers and DMZs inside the environment, corporate networks, and linkages to partner companies are a few examples of this.
Pros
- Innovative solutions: iSecurion may offer cutting-edge and innovative cybersecurity solutions that leverage the latest technologies and methodologies to protect against modern cyber threats.
- Customized approach: iSecurion could potentially provide tailored security solutions based on the unique needs and requirements of their clients, offering personalized cybersecurity strategies that address specific vulnerabilities and risks.
- Competitive pricing: iSecurion may offer competitive pricing for their services, making them an attractive option for organizations with budget constraints.
Cons
- Limited reputation: If iSecurion is a relatively unknown company, they may lack an established reputation or track record, which could make it challenging to evaluate their reliability and effectiveness as a cybersecurity provider.
- Limited services: iSecurion may have a limited range of services or expertise, which may not cover all aspects of cybersecurity, potentially requiring organizations to engage multiple providers for a more holistic cybersecurity approach.
- Resource availability: If iSecurion has limited resources or staff, they may face challenges in handling multiple projects simultaneously or meeting urgent client demands.
7. Payatu
Payatu is a research-driven cybersecurity service and training firm with a proven track record of protecting software, hardware, and infrastructure for clients across 20+ countries.
They specialize in IoT, Embedded Web, Mobile, Cloud, and Infrastructure security assessments. The assets of the client are secured by Payatu’s in-depth technical security training and cutting-edge research methodology and technologies.
Payatu, the most reputable cyber security service, takes every precaution to protect your online application so you can ensure the safety and security of all of your users.
Payatu conducts a web application assessment that is tailored, and the assessment report comprises detailed, deeply analyzed information along with practical suggestions.
This includes everything from developing a web security plan to guiding your internal staff and everything in between.
Pros
- Expertise: Payatu is known for its team of experienced cybersecurity professionals who are skilled in various domains of cybersecurity, such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and red teaming. Their expertise and knowledge may provide valuable insights and effective solutions to identify and mitigate security risks.
- Range of Services: Payatu offers a wide range of services, including offensive and defensive security services, application security, network security, IoT security, and training. This breadth of services may allow clients to have a one-stop-shop for their cybersecurity needs, covering different aspects of their security requirements.
- Research and Innovation: Payatu conducts research and contributes to the cybersecurity community through conferences, workshops, and publications. This focus on research and innovation may indicate that they stay updated with the latest cybersecurity trends and technologies, allowing them to provide cutting-edge solutions to their clients.
Cons
- Cost: Cybersecurity services can be expensive, and Payatu’s services may not be affordable for all organizations, particularly smaller businesses or startups with limited budgets. The cost of their services may be a potential con for organizations with budget constraints.
- Geographical Limitations: Payatu is based in India, which may limit its availability and reach for organizations outside of India or in other regions. This may be a potential drawback for organizations that require local presence or support in other regions.
- Subjective Experience: The quality of cybersecurity services, including those offered by Payatu, can vary depending on individual experiences and requirements. The effectiveness of their services may vary based on the specific needs and expectations of each client, which may result in varying levels of satisfaction.
In conclusion, while the threats to businesses are only projected to increase over the upcoming years, it is paramount that companies take all necessary precautions and select the right service provider to ensure that their product’s cybersecurity requirements are never compromised.
Remember, you don’t have to shell out a large sum of money to avail excellent services. So take your time and pick wisely.
Why is SecureLayer7 the Best Choice For You?
SecureLayer7’s comprehensive continuous penetration tests help customers to spot high-risk vulnerabilities such as using components with known vulnerabilities, SQL Injection, cross-site scripting, broken access control, broken identification & authentication, security misconfigurations, sensitive data exposures, XML external entities, insecure deserialization, server-side request forgery, and insufficient logging & monitoring which may result in severe attacks.
Our PTaaS services include application testing, mobile app penetration testing, thick client penetration testing, and VOIP penetration testing. We are renowned amongst SMEs and large organizations that leverage our penetration testing services to perform and act on continuous pen tests.
We additionally help businesses securely maintain their cloud infrastructure by detecting and quarantining vulnerabilities in Azure, AWS, and Kubernetes systems at a reasonable cost. Our network security service ensures that your corporate infrastructure follows industry standards and complies with industry regulations reducing the risk of attacks on devices and servers.
SL7 provides full security service to your web application with automated and manual testing to identify and remediate all risks challenging your application security. Contact us to find out how we identify and mitigate all your web application vulnerabilities.
Key Takeaways
With cyber-attacks on the rise, Indian businesses must enhance their security measures. Penetration testing is crucial for identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities, helping to protect your IT infrastructure from threats. Choosing a reputable and experienced service provider is key to effective testing. This guide highlights top penetration testing companies in India to help you make an informed choice. Stay proactive in securing your digital assets to safeguard against emerging threats in 2024 and beyond.
