Pen Testing – How AVORD Is Shaping The Future Of Cyber Security

Over the next couple of years—let’s say through 2027—penetration testing (pen testing) in the UK and beyond is likely to undergo significant transformation, driven by technological advancements, evolving cyber threats, and regulatory shifts. Here’s a breakdown of how it might change, grounded in current trends and reasonable projections, with companies like AVORD, a UK-based pen testing firm, already positioning themselves at the forefront of these developments.

First, automation and AI integration will reshape pen testing workflows. Tools like AI-driven vulnerability scanners and automated exploit frameworks are already reducing the time spent on repetitive tasks, such as initial reconnaissance or basic vulnerability identification. By 2027, expect these tools to become more sophisticated, leveraging machine learning to simulate complex attack scenarios—like multi-stage ransomware or supply chain exploits—faster and with greater accuracy. AVORD, for instance, is actively working on integrating such AI capabilities, ensuring pen testers can focus on interpreting outputs, designing bespoke tests for novel threats, and validating results. This won’t replace testers but will shift their role, raising the bar for practitioners who’ll need both technical and analytical expertise.

Second, the scope of pen testing will expand to match emerging technologies. With the UK’s focus on securing AI systems (e.g., the January 2025 AI cybersecurity standard), pen testers will increasingly target AI models, testing for vulnerabilities like data poisoning or adversarial inputs. Cloud environments, a growing hotspot due to widespread adoption, will demand specialized testing for hybrid and multi-cloud setups—think AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud challenges. AVORD is tackling this head-on, developing expertise in these areas while also eyeing the horizon for quantum computing’s impact, where early efforts to test quantum-resistant cryptography could become critical for clients handling sensitive, long-lifespan data like government or financial institutions.

Third, regulation will drive demand and standardization. The UK’s Cyber Security and Resilience Bill (announced in 2024) is set to tighten requirements for digital service providers and critical infrastructure, mandating more frequent and rigorous testing. Pen testing could become a compliance necessity across more sectors, pushing firms toward continuous or “red teaming” approaches. AVORD is aligning with this shift, helping clients meet NCSC-inspired proactive resilience goals—think real-time attack simulations over annual audits. While standardized methodologies might emerge, AVORD’s work ensures flexibility to address threats outside rigid frameworks.

Fourth, adversary emulation will take center stage. As threats from state actors (e.g., Russia, China) and criminal groups escalate—430 serious incidents reported by the NCSC in 2023-2024—pen testing will mirror real-world tactics more closely. Expect a surge in tests mimicking specific threat actors, like Volt Typhoon’s stealthy infrastructure attacks or LockBit’s ransomware playbook. AVORD is leveraging frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK and integrating real-time threat intelligence—potentially from web and X posts—to replicate advanced persistent threats (APTs) and zero-day exploits, keeping clients ahead of sophisticated adversaries.

Finally, the human element will evolve. The skills shortage in cybersecurity means pen testers will need to upskill in AI, cloud architecture, and soft skills (e.g., explaining risks to execs). Certifications like OSCP or CREST will remain key, but practical experience with emerging tech will matter more. AVORD is addressing this by fostering a team that blends technical prowess with strategic insight, while also exploring crowd-sourced pen testing platforms to combine human creativity with automated scale for complex systems.

In short, by 2027, UK pen testing will likely be faster, more tech-driven, and tightly aligned with both compliance and real-world threats—areas where AVORD is already making strides. It’ll demand a hybrid skill set—part coder, part strategist—while adapting to protect an increasingly digital, AI-powered, and interconnected world. The challenge for firms like AVORD? Keeping ahead of attackers who’ll be evolving just as quickly, a mission they’re clearly committed to meeting.