UAE businesses are rapidly shifting towards online platforms from e-commerce portals to financial apps. While this transformation brings growth, it also opens doors to cyber threats. That’s why many UAE companies now invest in web application penetration testing (WAPT) to protect their digital assets.
Here’s the catch, choosing the wrong vendor can lead to wasted money, false results, and continued security risks. In this blog today, we will discuss some of the errors made by UAE Companies when selecting a Web Application Penetration Testing Vendor.
Mistakes UAE Businesses Make When Choosing a Web App Pentesting Vendor
Let’s explore the common mistakes UAE businesses make when selecting a web app pentesting vendor and how to avoid them:
1. Prioritizing Price Over Quality
One of the biggest mistakes UAE businesses make is focusing solely on cost. Yes, budgets matter but when it comes to cybersecurity, cheap often means risky. Low-cost vendors may use automated tools only, skipping the manual testing needed to uncover complex vulnerabilities. This leaves your application partially tested and still vulnerable to attacks.
Tip: Always prioritize experience, methodology, and credibility over pricing. A reliable vendor helps prevent costly data breaches later.
2. Ignoring Vendor Credentials and Certifications
Many companies fail to verify whether their pentesting partner holds relevant certifications or accreditations. A credible vendor should ideally be:
- Hold international security accreditations.
- Familiar with OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities.
- Equipped with certified experts such as GWAPT, OSCP, or CISSP professionals.
Ignoring this step can lead to working with unqualified testers who may not follow global standards.
Tip: Ask for their certification details, empanelment proof, and client references before signing a contract.
3. Not Defining a Clear Testing Scope
A vague or incomplete scope often leads to poor testing results.
Some UAE businesses skip defining which applications, APIs, or environments are to be tested. Without clarity, the vendor may either test less than required or miss critical areas like:
- Admin panels
- APIs
- Authentication modules
Tip: Create a detailed scope document listing all your web assets, user roles, and data flow points before testing begins.
4. Overlooking Manual Pentesting
Automated scanners are fast but not foolproof. They can detect common flaws but often miss logic-based or business-specific vulnerabilities. Many UAE companies unknowingly choose vendors that rely entirely on automated scans to save time or cost.
Tip: Always ensure your vendor combines automated and manual testing for comprehensive coverage.
5. Failing to Check Reporting Quality
A penetration test is only as useful as the report you receive.
Some vendors deliver long, tool-generated reports filled with technical jargon but little actionable insight. Such reports make it difficult for your developers to fix vulnerabilities effectively.
Tip: Ask the vendor for a sample report. It should include severity levels, detailed explanations, and remediation steps in simple language.
6. Ignoring Data Privacy and NDA Agreements
During testing, your vendor will access sensitive data, application logic, and sometimes live systems. Failing to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) can put your confidential information at risk.
Tip: Choose a vendor that strictly follows data protection laws and is willing to sign NDAs before the test begins.
7. Not Planning for Post-Test Support
Many businesses assume the process ends once they receive the VAPT report. But real security improvement comes during remediation and retesting. Some vendors don’t offer post-test validation, leaving vulnerabilities unchecked even after fixes.
Tip: Choose a vendor who provides post-remediation testing and consultation to ensure every issue is fully resolved.
8. Ignoring Industry-Specific Expertise
Cyber threats vary across industries. A vendor who works mainly with e-commerce may not understand the unique needs of a fintech or healthcare business.
Tip: Look for a vendor with relevant industry experience in your domain, whether it’s retail, BFSI, or logistics.
9. Overlooking Communication and Transparency
Smooth communication is vital during penetration testing. If the vendor doesn’t communicate timelines, risks, or progress clearly, it can disrupt business operations.
Tip: Pick a vendor who maintains transparent communication before, during, and after the assessment.
10. Not Verifying References or Past Work
Lastly, some UAE businesses skip checking vendor reviews or client testimonials.
This can lead to hiring a company with poor service or limited experience.
Tip: Ask for case studies, past clients, and references. Reputable vendors will always have a proven track record.
About Peneto Labs (Peneto Cyber Risk Review LLC)
Peneto Labs, operating in Dubai as Peneto Cyber Risk Review LLC, is a leading cybersecurity company specializing in web application penetration testing, vulnerability management, and risk assessments. The firm has earned a strong reputation for delivering accurate, standards-driven security testing that aligns with international frameworks such as OWASP, ISO 27001, and NIST.
With a client base spanning finance, healthcare, government, and e-commerce sectors, Peneto Cyber Risk Review LLC has become a trusted partner for businesses seeking reliable, risk-focused penetration testing in the UAE. Their commitment to accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement makes them a standout choice for organizations aiming to secure their web assets the right way.
Final Takeaway
When it comes to cybersecurity, prevention is far cheaper than a breach. Choosing the right pentesting vendor ensures your web application is resilient, compliant, and secure in today’s evolving digital landscape.
Selecting the right web app pentesting vendor is not just a technical decision, it’s a strategic business move. Your vendor becomes your partner in safeguarding data, reputation, and customer trust. UAE businesses must focus on credibility, methodology, transparency, and post-test support instead of just cost or convenience. Remember: The wrong choice can cost you much more than the right investment.