// Penetration Testing

Thick Client & Desktop Application Testing.

Desktop apps are a forgotten attack surface. Most organisations test their web apps and ignore the software running on every workstation.

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// Overview

Thick Client & Desktop Application Testing

ERP systems, trading platforms, custom enterprise tools, and proprietary client software — thick clients often have privileged access to sensitive data and backend systems, with weaker security controls than their web counterparts. HackLabs' consultants have deep experience reverse-engineering and attacking desktop applications across Windows, macOS, and Linux, finding vulnerabilities that automated tools simply can't reach.

// CREST Accredited

Independently verified methodology

HackLabs holds CREST accreditation across all testing disciplines. Every engagement is conducted to CREST standards by certified consultants.

// Senior Testers Only

No graduates on client work

Every engagement is led by an experienced senior consultant. You get depth of analysis and findings that actually matter to your security posture.

// Clear Reporting

Built for action, not filing

Findings are prioritised by real-world risk. You receive an executive summary, technical findings, and a remediation roadmap your team can act on immediately.

// What We Cover
  • Binary analysis and decompilation
  • DLL hijacking and injection attacks
  • Insecure local credential storage
  • Memory analysis and scraping
  • Traffic interception (proxy bypass techniques)
  • Hardcoded secrets and licence bypass
  • Registry and file system abuse
  • Inter-process communication (IPC) vulnerabilities
// Capabilities

What we test

Binary Analysis

Static and dynamic analysis of compiled binaries — decompilation, code review, and reverse engineering to identify security flaws invisible in source code reviews.

DLL Hijacking & Injection

Testing for DLL search order hijacking, phantom DLL loading, and injection opportunities that could allow privilege escalation or code execution.

Credential Storage

Analysis of how the application stores credentials, API keys, and sensitive data locally — in registry, files, databases, and memory.

Memory Analysis

Runtime memory inspection to identify sensitive data (credentials, keys, PII) held unencrypted in process memory or accessible via scraping attacks.

Traffic Interception

Testing for SSL pinning bypass and proxy resistance — ensuring the application can't be trivially intercepted to expose backend API calls.

Backend API Testing

Once we understand the application's API surface, we test the backend services for the same vulnerabilities as a dedicated API pentest.

// Methodology

Our testing process

01

Scoping

We define the engagement boundaries, objectives, and rules of engagement. Clear scope means focused testing and accurate results.

02

Testing

Senior consultants conduct both automated and manual testing, replicating real-world attack techniques against your environment.

03

Reporting

Detailed technical findings with risk ratings, proof-of-concept evidence, and clear remediation guidance for both technical and executive audiences.

04

Remediation Support

We stay engaged beyond the report. Our team answers remediation questions and offers a complimentary re-test on critical findings.

// Why HackLabs
CREST
Accredited

CREST-certified testers across all disciplines. Independently audited methodology you can trust.

3,000+
Pen Tests Delivered

Extensive track record across enterprise, government, and critical infrastructure sectors.

20+
Years Established

Founded by Chris Gatford — over two decades of offensive security experience at your service.

100%
Senior Testers

No graduates on client engagements. Every test is run by experienced, certified professionals.

// Related Services

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// Get Started

Time to test your desktop attack surface?

Talk to a HackLabs specialist about scoping a thick client assessment for your environment.

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