The 5 Most Common Myths About Penetration Testing—Debunked
Penetration testing—also known as ethical hacking—can sound intimidating, especially if you've never had one done before. At Mile High Cyber, we’ve heard all the fears and misconceptions. And the truth is, most of them come from a place of uncertainty.
Let’s set the record straight by tackling five of the most common myths about pen testing—and why they couldn’t be further from the truth.
Myth #1: A Pen Test Will Make Me and My Organization Look Bad
Reality: A penetration test doesn’t create problems—it reveals them, so they can be fixed.
Think of it like a medical check-up. If your doctor finds high blood pressure, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you now have the information you need to take action. The same is true with a pen test. The goal isn’t to embarrass you or point fingers. It’s to give you a clear, actionable roadmap to reduce your risk.
At Mile High Cyber, we focus on solutions, not blame. You’re taking a proactive step just by getting tested.
Myth #2: Pen Testers Just Want to Make Me Look Bad
Reality: Good pen testers are your allies—not your adversaries.
Our job is to think like attackers, but act like partners. We’re here to help you stay ahead of real threats—not play "gotcha." The best testers deliver findings respectfully, communicate clearly, and offer practical advice for remediation.
In short, we’re on your team—and we want you to succeed.
Myth #3: Pen Tests Are Only for Big Companies with Lots of Sensitive Data
Reality: Small and mid-sized organizations are often more attractive targets.
Why? Because they typically have fewer defenses, less staff, and less budget for cybersecurity—which makes them low-hanging fruit for attackers. We've seen ransomware take down dental offices, HVAC companies, and small law firms.
Pen testing isn’t just for Fortune 500s. If your organization stores client data, accepts payments, relies on digital systems, or is bound by compliance regulations (like HIPAA, GLBA, or the FTC Safeguards Rule)—you need to test your defenses.
Myth #4: A Pen Test Might Get Me Fired
Reality: Taking cybersecurity seriously makes you look like a leader, not a liability.
If you’re the one advocating for a pen test, that sends a strong message: you’re proactive, risk-aware, and committed to protecting your organization. Most executives and boards respect that.
And if vulnerabilities are found? That’s expected. Every organization has gaps. What matters most is how you respond—and a professional pen test gives you a head start.
Myth #5: Pen Tests Are Too Expensive
Reality: Pen testing is an investment—one that’s often cheaper than a single cyber incident.
Consider this: a data breach can cost hundreds of thousands—or millions—of dollars in downtime, legal fees, and reputation damage. A targeted penetration test typically costs a fraction of that, and helps you prevent far bigger losses.
Plus, at Mile High Cyber, we tailor every engagement to your size, risk level, and budget. We make it affordable, focused, and worth every dollar.
Ready to Separate Fact from Fiction?
At Mile High Cyber, we’ve conducted hundreds of penetration tests for businesses of all sizes. We speak in plain language, deliver fast results, and focus on what matters: protecting your business from real-world threats.
Curious how a pen test would work for your organization?
Let’s talk. We’ll answer your questions—no pressure, no judgment.