AI-powered penetration testing: Definition, Tools and Process

This report provides an overview of AI-powered penetration testing, detailing how AI/ML and autonomous agents enhance reconnaissance, vulnerability discovery, exploit validation, and reporting within a human-in-the-loop model. It outlines a multi-step testing workflow, surveys traditional and AI-centric tools, enumerates common AI/ML-specific security weaknesses (e.g., prompt injection, data poisoning, model theft), and contrasts strengths and limitations versus manual testing. The document emphasizes a hybrid AI-assisted, human-led approach and highlights ethical considerations around scope, privacy, bias, explainability, and misuse.