VAPT vs. CERT-In
Security Audit
Why a standard vulnerability test isn't enough for Indian regulatory compliance.
Almost every business in India uses the terms "VAPT" and "Security Audit" interchangeably. However, from a legal and regulatory standpoint (RBI, SEBI, NIC), there is a massive difference that can make or break your compliance readiness.
What is VAPT?
Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing (VAPT) is a highly technical process focusing on discovering and exploiting security flaws. It can be performed by any skilled security professional or firm.
- Finds technical bugs
- Highly specific scope
- Internal security hygiene
- Performed by any firm
What is CERT-In Audit?
A CERT-In Audit is a legally sanctioned compliance assessment. It MUST be conducted by a CERT-In Empanelled Organization. It confirms not just technical safety, but adherence to national cybersecurity laws.
- Legal Compliance in India
- Mandatory for Govt/NIC
- Empanelled Organization required
- Signed with Authority
1. The Empanelment Factor
A standard VAPT report is internally useful, but for many Indian regulators, it's just a piece of paper. To get a NIC "Safe-to-Host" certificate or to satisfy RBI/SEBI auditors, the report must be generated by a firm officially empanelled by CERT-In. This empanelment involves rigorous skill testing of the auditing firm by the government.
2. Regulatory & Governance Scope
While VAPT looks at code and networks, a CERT-In security audit dives into governance:
- Incident Response Capability (6-hour rule preparedness).
- Data Residency Compliance (180-day log rules).
- Third-party and Supply Chain risk evaluation.
- Adherence to MeitY security guidelines and Section 70B of IT Act.
Which one do you need?
If your goal is to simply know if your app is hackable: VAPT is enough.
If your goal is to fulfill a legal mandate from RBI/SEBI/NIC or win a government tender: A CERT-In Audit is mandatory.
Still Confused?
Explore our dedicated CERT-In Security Audit services roadmap.
Compliance is Non-Negotiable
Speak directly with ARM Innovations' security researchers for a free scoping call.
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