In my last project, I conducted a comprehensive penetration test on a financial institution's web application. I identified several critical vulnerabilities, including SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and insecure direct object references (IDOR). These vulnerabilities could have led to unauthorized data access and manipulation. I provided detailed reports and remediation recommendations, which included input validation, parameterized queries, and proper access controls. The client implemented these changes, significantly enhancing their security posture.

I stay updated by regularly participating in cybersecurity conferences, webinars, and training sessions. I also follow leading industry blogs, forums, and social media channels dedicated to cybersecurity. Additionally, I engage in continuous learning through certifications such as OSCP, CEH, and CISSP. Hands-on practice with tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Kali Linux helps me keep my skills sharp and relevant to current threats.

Black-box testing involves testing an application without prior knowledge of its internal workings, simulating an external attacker. White-box testing provides full access to the application's source code and architecture, allowing for a more in-depth analysis. Grey-box testing falls between these two, offering some internal knowledge, such as network diagrams or user credentials, but not the full source code. Each method has its advantages; black-box tests real-world attack scenarios, white-box finds deep-rooted issues, and grey-box balances both perspectives.

I prioritize vulnerabilities based on their potential impact and exploitability. Critical vulnerabilities, such as those that can lead to remote code execution or data breaches, are addressed first. I also consider the ease of exploitation; vulnerabilities that require minimal effort to exploit are prioritized over those that are complex. Additionally, I factor in the business context, focusing on issues that could significantly harm the organization's reputation or financial stability.

I commonly use tools like Nmap for network scanning, Wireshark for packet analysis, and Burp Suite for web application testing. For vulnerability assessment, I rely on Nessus and OpenVAS. Metasploit is my go-to for exploit development and testing. I follow methodologies such as the OWASP Testing Guide and NIST SP 800-115 for structured testing. These tools and methodologies ensure a thorough and systematic approach to identifying and mitigating security risks.