Define "red teaming" in the context of cybersecurity.

Red teaming in cybersecurity refers to a simulated attack where security professionals emulate the tactics, techniques, and procedures of potential adversaries to critically assess an organization's defenses. This practice aims to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses by mimicking real-world threats, allowing organizations to enhance their security posture and response strategies.

The focus of red teaming is to challenge the effectiveness of security measures in place, providing a realistic view of how an attacker might exploit vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access or cause damage. Through this proactive approach, organizations can uncover hidden weaknesses, improve detection capabilities, and develop better incident response strategies. This contrasts with a purely defensive strategy, internal reviews, or automated scans, which do not fully replicate the nuances of adversarial behavior.