Application penetration tests take real time, real money, and real effort from your team. If you are going to do one, it should tell you something useful about your risks.

Modern applications aren’t just custom code and a database. They often rely on third-party APIs, external services, and, in some cases, AI-driven features. At the same time, testing approaches are changing, with some vendors relying more heavily on automation and AI-assisted techniques. Both realities affect what gets tested and how to interpret the results.

The difference between a helpful test and a frustrating one often comes down to fundamentals. Scope. Expectations. Communication. And knowing what questions to ask before the test starts and after the report lands.

Session Summary:

In this virtual session, Dan Petro, a long-time application tester and lead researcher at Bishop Fox, walks through how to maximize the value of a penetration test from start to finish. He covers best practices for scoping (objectives, scope vs. focus, staffing, tooling, and scheduling), how to keep fieldwork on track (rules of engagement, access, communication, and status reporting), and how to turn the final report into action with clear prioritization and a remediation plan.

This session is useful whether you are running your first test or trying to get more consistency and value out of an established program.

Key Takeaways:

1. Start with clear objectives. Define what “success” looks like (find as many bugs as possible, validate controls, stay out of the news, support M&A due diligence, etc.).
2. Get scope right early. Scope is legally binding, so clarify targets up front (including APIs and dependencies) to avoid change orders mid-engagement.
3. When in doubt, restrict focus, not scope. Keep systems in scope, but tell testers what to prioritize or deprioritize (especially during migrations).
4. Right-size depth and effort. Accurate scoping inputs (tech stack, architecture, size, complexity) directly impact coverage and outcomes.
5. Plan for the “dream team,” not a specific person. Match tester expertise to your technology and risk profile instead of requesting individual consultants by name.
6. Avoid rushed and constantly shifting schedules. Rushed tests skip critical prep and rescheduling can disrupt staffing and reduce overall effectiveness.
7. Make fieldwork frictionless. Ensure the environment works, data is populated, testers have access, and disable WAF/IDS when the goal is app testing (leave controls on only when you’re testing controls).
8. Use status reports to manage risk, not chase daily findings. Track blockers, timeline, and coverage; expect immediate notification only for truly critical issues. Close with a remediation plan so the report drives real change.
   
   Learn more about Bishop Fox Penetration Testing methodology here.