This skill should be used when the user asks to "plan a penetration test", "create a security assessment checklist", "prepare for penetration testing", "define pentest scope", "follow security testing best practices", or needs a structured methodology for penetration testing engagements.
Provide a comprehensive checklist for planning, executing, and following up on penetration tests. Ensure thorough preparation, proper scoping, and effective remediation of discovered vulnerabilities.
□ Scope defined and documented
□ Authorization obtained
□ Environment prepared
□ Hosting provider notified
□ Team briefed
□ Monitoring enabled
□ Backups verified
Post-Pentest Checklist
□ Report received and reviewed
□ Findings prioritized
□ Remediation assigned
□ Fixes implemented
□ Verification testing scheduled
□ Environment cleaned up
□ Next test scheduled
Constraints
Production testing carries inherent risks
Budget limitations affect thoroughness
Time constraints may limit coverage
Tester expertise varies significantly
Findings become stale quickly
Examples
Example 1: Quick Scope Definition
**Target:** Corporate web application (app.company.com)
**Type:** Gray box web application pentest
**Duration:** 5 business days
**Excluded:** DoS testing, production database access
**Access:** Standard user account provided