We have fully assimilated into an IT-based world- dependent upon computers and digital networks to store and track information, conduct commerce, and execute financial transactions. And with that, those who perpetrate acts of theft and other nefarious activities have adapted as well. The tactics of “cyber criminals” might be different than those of past criminals, but their intent basically remains the same.

The protection of extremely sensitive personal, financial, and national-security-oriented information is critical to institutions such as banks, healthcare organizations, and military and government entities. Information theft can affect millions of people. Some of the most publicized cases in recent years have involved credit cards. The systems of several large companies have been compromised by hackers who gained access to a multitude of card numbers and personal histories.

With security being such a major issue these days, software developers must stay one step ahead of the game. System security is very much like a game of “cat and mouse;” a veritable chess match between hackers and programmers.

Security is now at the very core of the software development lifecycle (SDLC). It is a continuous challenge for programmers to detect system and application vulnerabilities and protect against increasingly creative methods of attack.

To accomplish this, software testers and developers perform a variety of risk assessments that include creating test cases and scenarios designed to uncover areas that might be exposed to threats. Application and system testing is often performed by a company’s own software quality assurance staff or by a trusted outsourced software testing outfit.

Software testing from a security aspect is an ongoing process. Discovering potential weaknesses in system or software architecture and developing the means to reduce risk and thwart intrusion are vital to the preservation of privacy, assets and reputation.

Software Testing | Vendor Quality Management | Oracle ERP (E-Business Suite)