Penetration testing is an authorized security exercise where specialists try to break into a system to find and report vulnerabilities before criminals can.
A test methodology in which assessors, typically working under specific constraints, attempt to circumvent or defeat the security features of an information system. Source: NIST SP 800-53 Rev 4
Example
The secretary of state required penetration testing of the new online ballot marking tool, and the testers found a flaw that could have exposed voter choices before it was repaired.
Why this term matters
How it is used in election security
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with named public sources, practical context and related definitions.
A test methodology in which assessors, typically working under specific constraints, attempt to circumvent or defeat the security features of an information system. Source: NIST SP 800-53 Rev 4
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Penetration Testing. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved September 14, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/penetration-testing
Sources
01
High consensus
02
Multi-source
03
Multi-source
04
Multi-source
05
Multi-source
06
Multi-source
07
Multi-source
08
Multi-source
09
Multi-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.