Desktop Application Penetration Testing
Desktop application penetration testing checks whether software installed on Windows, macOS or Linux, including Electron apps, can be abused to steal data, run code or gain higher privileges on the machine. It covers installers, auto-updaters, local storage, inter-process communication and the backend APIs.
- Manual, expert-led testing
- CVSS-rated report with fixes
- Retest after you fix
- Written scope before work starts
Talk to our Security Experts
Tell us what needs testing, then pick a 30-minute slot.
Get a tailored scope, timeline and pricing on the call.
Common desktop app risks
Desktop apps often run with more privilege than they need, store tokens in plain files, or download updates without verifying them. Electron apps add web risks such as cross-site scripting that can turn into code execution on the user's computer.
What we test
- Installer and auto-update integrity
- Local privilege escalation via services and file permissions
- Stored tokens and secrets
- Electron settings (nodeIntegration, context isolation)
- IPC and custom URL handlers
- Backend APIs
Requirements Indian businesses usually test for
In India, the trigger for a test is often regulatory. RBI expects regulated entities and their technology vendors to run periodic VAPT. SEBI's cybersecurity framework asks market intermediaries for regular testing. CERT-In directions require organisations to maintain security practices and report incidents. The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act 2023 requires reasonable security safeguards for personal data.
Enterprise customers also ask vendors for a recent third-party pentest report during security reviews. We write reports so the same document can be shared with a regulator, an auditor or a customer's security team.
How the engagement runs
1. Scoping call (30 minutes)
We agree targets, user roles, environments, testing windows and the compliance reason for the test.
2. Written scope and quote
You get a scope document and an INR or USD quote based on the real size of the work.
3. Discovery and manual testing
Automated tooling for coverage, then manual testing of authentication, access control and business logic.
4. Report
Executive summary, CVSS-rated findings with evidence, reproduction steps and remediation guidance.
5. Retest
Once your team ships fixes, we verify each finding and issue an updated report.
What the report contains
- Executive summary for leadership, customers and auditors
- Findings rated by CVSS severity with screenshots and request evidence
- Step-by-step reproduction for your developers
- Specific remediation guidance, not generic advice
- Compliance mapping (ISO 27001, SOC 2, PCI DSS, RBI, SEBI, CERT-In guidelines) where relevant
- Retest status showing which findings are open and closed
Certifications our testers hold
Every engagement is led by a certified senior tester.
Frequently asked questions
Do you test Electron apps?
Yes, including the web content and the desktop integration layer.
How much does it cost?
Price depends on the number of targets, user roles and depth of manual testing. Use the VAPT cost estimator for an INR range, or book a call for a written quote.