Source: The Hacker News
Author: [email protected] (The Hacker News)
URL: https://thehackernews.com/2025/03/10-critical-network-pentest-findings-it.html
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## ONE SENTENCE SUMMARY:
Many organizations still have critical security gaps due to misconfigurations, weak passwords, and unpatched vulnerabilities, making them easy targets for attackers.
## MAIN POINTS:
1. **50% of security gaps stem from misconfigurations**, such as default settings and weak access controls.
2. **30% are caused by missing patches**, leaving systems vulnerable to known exploits.
3. **20% involve weak passwords**, allowing unauthorized access to critical services.
4. **Top security risks include mDNS, NBNS, and LLMNR spoofing**, which attackers exploit for credential theft.
5. **EternalBlue and BlueKeep vulnerabilities** still pose major risks due to unpatched systems.
6. **Outdated Microsoft Windows systems** remain a significant security threat due to lack of updates.
7. **IPMI authentication bypass** can lead to unauthorized remote access and password hash extraction.
8. **Default credentials on Firebird servers** allow attackers to easily gain unauthorized access.
9. **Regular network pentesting is essential**, yet many organizations rely on infrequent annual tests.
10. **Automated pentesting solutions like vPenTest** help organizations identify and fix vulnerabilities continuously.
## TAKEAWAYS:
1. **Misconfigurations and weak security practices are the most common vulnerabilities** exploited by attackers.
2. **Regular and automated pentesting is crucial** to identifying and mitigating security threats in real time.
3. **Unpatched systems remain a major risk**, making timely updates essential for cybersecurity.
4. **Weak passwords and default credentials** continue to be a leading cause of security breaches.
5. **Organizations must move beyond compliance-based testing** and adopt continuous security assessment strategies.
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