Introduction to Red Teaming: What Is It and Why Does Your Organization Need It?

Red Teaming is one of the most effective methods for testing an organization’s security posture under realistic conditions. But what exactly does that mean, and how does it differ from a classic penetration test?

What is Red Teaming?

Red Teaming is a realistic attack simulation where a team of security experts – the so-called Red Team – attempts to penetrate an organization’s systems and infrastructure. Unlike a penetration test, which usually focuses on technical vulnerabilities, the Red Team uses all available methods:

• Technical Attacks: Exploitation of vulnerabilities in systems and applications
• Social Engineering: Manipulation of employees through phishing, vishing, or personal contact
• Physical Security: Physical infiltration of buildings and premises

The Difference from Penetration Testing

While a penetration test usually has a defined scope (“Test our web application”), Red Teaming is more holistic. The goal is to play through a realistic attack scenario – just as a real attacker would.

Why TIBER-AT?

In Austria and the EU, the TIBER standard (Threat Intelligence-based Ethical Red Teaming) has established itself as best practice. TIBER-AT is the Austrian implementation of this framework and is particularly used in the financial sector.

The benefits of TIBER-compliant assessments:

1. Standardized Process: Clear phases from Threat Intelligence to Purple Teaming
2. Regulatory Acceptance: Meets requirements of supervisory authorities
3. Comparability: Results can be compared over time and between organizations

Conclusion

Red Teaming is more than just an “extended pentest.” It’s a comprehensive review of an organization’s security capabilities – from technical infrastructure to employees to physical security.

If you want to know how resilient your organization really is against real attackers, you should consider a Red Teaming assessment.

Want to learn more? Schedule a free consultation with our team.