Penetration Testing for Telecommunications
Telecommunications providers operate critical infrastructure that enables global communications, including mobile networks, fixed-line networks, internet service provision, and cloud communications platforms. Telecom operators are targeted by nation-state actors seeking intelligence collection, cybercriminals exploiting billing systems, and attackers targeting the infrastructure that other industries depend upon.
Penetration testing for telecom must cover a vast and diverse technology landscape including core network infrastructure, customer-facing portals and apps, billing and CRM systems, OSS/BSS platforms, 5G infrastructure, and interconnection points with other operators. Telecom-specific testing may include SIP/VoIP security testing, SS7 vulnerability assessment, and testing of mobile network components.
The deployment of 5G networks, network function virtualisation (NFV), and software-defined networking (SDN) has introduced new attack vectors that require testing by specialists who understand telecom architectures. Telecom operators in Europe must comply with NIS 2, the European Electronic Communications Code, and national telecom security regulations.
NCC Group
Global cybersecurity consultancy with CREST, CHECK, and CBEST accreditation, renowned for deep technical research and comprehensive penetration testing services.
SECFORCE
Canary Wharf-based adversary simulation and CBEST-aligned penetration testing consultancy, delivering CREST-accredited offensive security to UK financial services and other organisations with the most demanding requirements.
PwC Cyber Security
Global Big Four professional services firm delivering CREST, CHECK, and CBEST-accredited penetration testing and red teaming services from London, serving the UK's largest enterprises and regulated organisations.
Secarma
Manchester-based independent cybersecurity consultancy with over 20 years of experience delivering CREST and CHECK-accredited penetration testing, red teaming, and compliance certification services.
Salus Cyber
Award-winning Cheltenham-based cybersecurity consultancy with NCSC CHECK Green Light status and CREST approval, specialising in defence, government, and critical national infrastructure security.
Thales Cyber Solutions
Cybersecurity division of the Thales Group, with ANSSI, CREST, FedRAMP 3PAO, and NATO-cleared personnel. Defence, government, and critical infrastructure penetration testing worldwide.
SensePost (Orange Cyberdefense)
Ethical hacking team within Orange Cyberdefense with a 20+ year track record. Known for building industry-standard security tools and groundbreaking research.
usd AG
Frankfurt-based European payment security specialist holding the full set of PCI credentials (QSA, PFI, ASV, P2PE). Manual-first penetration testing for fintechs, acquirers, and regulated enterprises.
SEC Consult
Vienna-headquartered Austrian cybersecurity consultancy with a prolific Vulnerability Lab research program and deep expertise in IoT and embedded systems security across the DACH region.
Airbus Protect
Airbus group cybersecurity consultancy with ANSSI PASSI qualification. Aerospace, defence, and critical infrastructure penetration testing across Europe.
Cure53
Berlin-based web, browser, and cryptography auditors founded by Dr. Mario Heiderich, trusted by ExpressVPN, NordVPN, 1Password, and Bitwarden.
Telecommunications Pen Testing FAQs
What telecom-specific testing is available?+
Specialised testing includes SS7 vulnerability assessment, SIP/VoIP security testing, 5G network testing, billing system testing, and interconnection security assessment.
How is 5G pen testing different?+
5G introduces new architectures (network slicing, edge computing, virtualised network functions) that require testing of cloud-native infrastructure, API-driven service orchestration, and new trust boundaries.
What are the biggest telecom security risks?+
Key risks include SS7 exploitation, SIM swapping, billing fraud, customer data breaches, infrastructure compromise enabling mass surveillance, and supply chain attacks on network equipment.