Manual Security Testing
Manual security testing is a hands-on approach where security professionals actively probe and analyze software applications, systems, or networks to identify vulnerabilities that automated tools might miss. It involves techniques like penetration testing, code review, and threat modeling to simulate real-world attacks and assess security posture. This method relies on human expertise, creativity, and critical thinking to uncover complex or logic-based security flaws.
Developers should learn manual security testing to enhance application security by finding subtle vulnerabilities like business logic errors, authentication bypasses, or session management issues that automated scanners often overlook. It is crucial in high-risk environments such as financial systems, healthcare applications, or critical infrastructure, where thorough security validation is required before deployment. This skill helps in compliance with standards like OWASP Top 10, PCI-DSS, or GDPR by providing deeper insights into security risks.