What is a key ethical guideline for conducting penetration tests?

A key ethical guideline for conducting penetration tests is that only tests agreed upon by clients should be performed. This principle emphasizes the importance of obtaining explicit permission before conducting any security evaluation or testing on a client’s systems. It ensures that both parties have a mutual understanding of the scope and limitations of the testing, which helps to avoid legal repercussions and fosters trust between the ethical hacker and the client.

Maintaining client consent not only adheres to ethical standards but also aligns with legal obligations and best practices within the cybersecurity domain. This guideline protects the integrity of the testing process and ensures that the ethical hacker operates professionally and responsibly. By obtaining prior approval, the penetration tester respects the client’s assets and privacy while also providing an opportunity for the client to define their expectations and concerns regarding the security assessment.