In the contemporary digital landscape, businesses face an ever-increasing array of cyber threats that jeopardize their operational integrity and data security. The complexity of these threats necessitates a robust and comprehensive approach to cybersecurity testing. Among the various methodologies available, graybox security testing stands out as a critical strategy that combines the advantages of both blackbox and whitebox testing. This approach enables organizations to identify vulnerabilities with greater precision and efficiency, thereby fortifying their defenses against potential breaches. Understanding Graybox Security Testing Graybox security testing is a hybrid approach that provides testers with partial knowledge of the internal workings of the system under examination. Unlike blackbox testing, where the tester has no prior information, or whitebox testing, where full access to source code and architecture is granted, graybox testing offers a balanced perspective. This method allows for targeted testing based on limited internal insights, which can reveal vulnerabilities that might otherwise remain undetected. The significance of graybox security testing lies in its ability to simulate real-world attack scenarios more accurately. By understanding some aspects of the system’s design, testers can focus on critical areas that are more susceptible to exploitation. This targeted approach not only enhances the effectiveness of the testing process but also optimizes resource allocation, making it a cost-efficient solution for businesses seeking to strengthen their cybersecurity posture. Cybersecurity analyst reviewing system architecture The Strategic Benefits of Graybox Security Testing Implementing graybox security testing offers several strategic advantages that directly contribute to a business’s resilience against cyber threats. First, it enables the identification of security flaws that are not apparent through external testing alone. By leveraging partial internal knowledge, testers can uncover hidden vulnerabilities within the system’s logic, configuration, and data flow. Second, graybox testing facilitates compliance with industry regulations and standards . Many regulatory frameworks require organizations to conduct thorough security assessments that encompass both external and internal perspectives. Graybox testing meets these requirements by providing a comprehensive evaluation that addresses potential risks from multiple angles. Third, this testing methodology supports continuous improvement in security practices . The insights gained from graybox testing can inform the development of more secure coding standards, system configurations, and operational procedures. Consequently, businesses can proactively mitigate risks before they escalate into significant security incidents. To maximize the benefits of graybox security testing, organizations should integrate it into their overall cybersecurity strategy. This integration involves regular testing cycles, collaboration between development and security teams, and the use of advanced tools that facilitate efficient vulnerability detection and remediation. What are the Big 4 Cyber Security Firms? The cybersecurity industry is dominated by several leading firms known for their comprehensive security services and global reach. These companies are often referred to as the "Big 4" cyber security firms due to their market influence and extensive expertise. They include: Deloitte - Renowned for its risk advisory and cybersecurity consulting services, Deloitte offers a wide range of solutions including threat intelligence, incident response, and compliance management. PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) - provides cybersecurity services that focus on strategy, risk management, and technology implementation, helping businesses align their security posture with organizational goals. EY (Ernst & Young) - specializes in cybersecurity transformation, threat detection, and resilience, assisting clients in navigating complex regulatory environments and emerging threats. KPMG - delivers cybersecurity services that emphasize governance, risk assessment, and security architecture, supporting businesses in building robust defense mechanisms. While these firms offer extensive resources and expertise, their services may not always be accessible or tailored to the specific needs of every business. This gap underscores the importance of specialized providers like Graybox Security , which focus on delivering customized security testing solutions that address unique organizational challenges. Cybersecurity professionals discussing strategy in a conference room Practical Applications of Graybox Security Testing in Business The application of graybox security testing extends across various business functions and technology environments. For instance, in software development, graybox testing can be integrated into the development lifecycle to identify vulnerabilities early, reducing the cost and impact of security flaws. This proactive approach aligns with DevSecOps principles, where security is embedded into every stage of software delivery. In network security, graybox testing enables the assessment of internal network configurations and access controls. By simulating insider threats and privilege escalation attempts, businesses can evaluate the effectiveness of their internal defenses and implement necessary safeguards. Moreover, graybox testing is instrumental in evaluating compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS. It provides evidence of due diligence in protecting sensitive information, which is crucial for avoiding legal penalties and maintaining customer trust. To implement graybox security testing effectively, businesses should: Define clear testing objectives aligned with organizational risk profiles. Provide testers with relevant system documentation and access credentials. Employ automated tools alongside manual testing to enhance coverage. Establish a remediation process to address identified vulnerabilities promptly. Conduct periodic retesting to verify the effectiveness of security measures. Enhancing Cybersecurity Posture with Graybox Security Testing The evolving threat landscape demands that businesses adopt advanced security testing methodologies to safeguard their digital assets. Graybox security testing offers a balanced and insightful approach that uncovers vulnerabilities with greater accuracy than traditional methods. By incorporating this testing into their cybersecurity framework, organizations can achieve a higher level of protection and compliance. Furthermore, partnering with a trusted provider specializing in graybox security testing ensures that businesses receive expert guidance and tailored solutions. This partnership facilitates continuous monitoring and improvement, enabling organizations to stay ahead of emerging threats and maintain operational resilience. In conclusion, the adoption of graybox security testing represents a strategic investment in a business’s cybersecurity infrastructure. It empowers organizations to identify and mitigate risks proactively, ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of critical systems and data. As cyber threats continue to grow in sophistication, embracing such comprehensive testing methodologies is essential for sustaining long-term security and compliance. Server room with network equipment illuminated

Banking sector in the Philippines Oct 2025 The Philippines' central bank, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), added new compliance requirements for IT security that apply to the banks in 2025.  Graybox Security provides comprehensive information and IT security advisory, assessment, GRC, security testing, managed security and training  services that directly address all the information security and compliance requirements mandated by BSP: BSP Circular No. 1154 (2025) - P rudential requirements for digital banks BSP Circular No. 1213 (June 2025)  -  IT Risk Management to implement AFASA Republic Act 12010  (July 2024) - A nti- Financial Account Scamming Act  (AFASA) (July 2024) BSP Circular No. 982 (2017) - Enhanced Guidelines on Information Security Management BSP Circular No. 808 (2013) - G uidelines on Information Technology Risk Management IT security and governance requirements Compliance Requirement Compliance Description Graybox Security Services Reference Audit trail, risk assessment, and documentation Maintain audit trails, conduct ongoing IT risk assessments for financial  transaction integrity, and submit technical documentation preventing account takeovers, phishing, and other frauds to BSP  Advisory Services for  IT Risk Management and Vulnerability Management BSP Circular No. 1213 (June 2025) Vulnerability assessments & penetration tests Banks are required to conduct periodic vulnerability testing and penetration tests as part of IT governance and submit reports to BSP. Security Testing Services (VAPT, Red teaming, Application Security and Code Review. BSP Circular No. 1213 (June 2025) Data protection and log integrity Transaction logs and customer data must be protected against unauthorized access or manipulation and securely backed up for audits and forensic investigations. Data Governance ,   Security Architecture  advisory and Managed Detection and Response  (MDR) BSP Circular No. 1213 (June 2025) Governance for digital banks Digital banks must strengthen governance, IT and cybersecurity risk management, operational controls aligned with digital banking risk profiles and report cybersecurity strategies, and risk governance measures to the BSP. Digital Maturity and Cybersecurity Assessment ,  IT Risk Management,   Virtual Chief Information Security  Officer BSP Circular No. 1154 (2025) Phishing-resistant authentication Phishing-resistant, device-bound authentication methods beyond SMS or email OTPs, including biometrics, passkeys, or hardware security keys, to secure digital onboarding, logins, and transactions. Advisory Services on Identity and Access Management (IAM), eKYC, MFA and advanced authentication methods RA. 12010  Anti- Financial Account Scamming Act   (July 2024) Information Security Management System Requires banks to implement comprehensive information security management systems (ISMS) including organizational, physical, and technical control measures. ISMS assessment, audit and implementation BSP Circular No. 982 (2017)  Information Technology Risk Management Risk management framework focusing on IT risk including cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities. IT Risk Management , assessment and governance framework implementation BSP Circular No. 808 (2013)  Step-by-Step Compliance Guide  Perform Initial Digital Maturity and Cybersecurity Assessments for compliance gap analysis to serve as an input for IT security and compliance roadmap Formalize IT Risk Management Governance   Implement Information Security Management System (ISMS) Perform Data Governance assessment and improvements Implement Strong Authentication Controls for all digital banking access points Implement  financial transaction integrity systems to keep and back up  tamper-resistant logs and audit trails Establish Continuous Vulnerability Management and regular Penetration Testing Establish real-time threat monitoring through Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Develop and test Incident Response and Business Continuity Management plans Educate staff with a Cybersecurity Awareness Program and specialized training to mitigate insider and Social Engineering r isks Review and update Security Posture annually and ensure ongoing regulatory reporting and compliance

Manila, Philippines – [June 2025]  — Graybox Security, a leading cybersecurity firm, has officially achieved Certified Platinum Partner  status with Wazuh , a global leader in open-source XDR and SIEM platforms. This milestone strengthens Graybox’s ability to deliver advanced threat detection, incident response, and compliance solutions to its growing client base. In an era of escalating cyberattacks and resource constraints, this partnership reinforces Graybox’s position as a trusted provider of tailored cybersecurity solutions across industries. Strengthened Cybersecurity with Wazuh Wazuh's platform—trusted by over 100,000 organizations including Fortune 500 companies such as Cisco, eBay, and NASA—secures more than 15 million endpoints worldwide. As a Platinum Partner, Graybox is now fully equipped to deploy Wazuh’s powerful capabilities in log analysis , threat intelligence , file integrity monitoring , vulnerability detection , and compliance management . This integration enables Graybox to reduce false positives by up to 30%, enhancing detection accuracy and operational efficiency across client environments. Benefits for IT Leaders Through this partnership, IT leaders gain access to enterprise-grade tools and expert guidance that accelerate threat detection and streamline incident response. Graybox's Managed Security Operations Center (MSOC) and Managed Detection and Response (MDR) offerings are now optimized to harness Wazuh's capabilities—ranging from malware detection and container security to cloud workload protection and proactive threat hunting. Advancing Capabilities to Deal with Emerging Threats “This Platinum Partnership with Wazuh reflects our commitment to staying ahead of the threat landscape,” said Gonz Gonzales, CEO of Graybox Security. “As cyber threats evolve, so must our capabilities. Wazuh enables us to build more intelligent, responsive, and scalable defenses for our clients.” Graybox Security continues to expand its portfolio of Managed Security Services , cementing its role as a key cybersecurity partner for organizations aiming to safeguard their digital assets in a rapidly changing threat environment. About Graybox Security Graybox Security is a cybersecurity services firm specializing in Managed Detection and Response, SIEM, vulnerability management, and incident response. By combining global technology partnerships with local expertise, Graybox helps organizations across Southeast Asia stay resilient in the face of cyber threats. About Wazuh Wazuh is an open-source security platform that unifies XDR and SIEM capabilities for endpoint and cloud protection. It is trusted by organizations worldwide to secure complex IT environments with real-time threat detection, compliance automation, and security monitoring.