Sydney-Based CypherLeap Achieves Global CREST Accreditation

Posted by Jordan Healy on 14 May 2026

Sydney-Based CypherLeap Achieves Global CREST Accreditation for Penetration Testing

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA [14 May 2026] – CypherLeap, a Sydney-based cybersecurity consultancy firm, has officially been granted CREST (International) accreditation for its penetration testing services. This global recognition follows a rigorous independent review of the firm’s technical methodologies and internal operations, marking CypherLeap’s transition into a formally recognised provider of high-assurance security assessments.

Elevating the Standard of Offensive Security

Founded by Ananthu Shaji, CypherLeap distinguishes itself by focusing on manual, expert-led testing rather than the automated, surface-level scans common in the industry. The firm’s offensive security wing is spearheaded by a dedicated Principal Consultant, ensuring direct technical leadership across all engagements, from standard assessments to complex red teaming.

Key service areas included under this accreditation are:

Full Spectrum Penetration Testing: Comprehensive evaluations across external and internal networks and wireless security.

Assumed Breach Assessments: Realistic simulations to test internal detection and response capabilities.

Vishing & Social Engineering: Advanced campaigns aligned to known threat actor TTPs (Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures).

Application Security: Deep-dive assessments into bespoke and enterprise-grade web applications.

A Word from the Founder

“Achieving CREST (International) accreditation is a watershed moment for us,” says Ananthu Shaji, Founder of CypherLeap. “We have always prided ourselves on being a boutique outfit. Being a boutique consultancy enables us to provide bespoke, intelligence-led assessments that go beyond standard requirements. This accreditation validates that our agile and creative methodologies meet the highest global benchmarks for security assurance”.

Endorsement from CREST (International)

“Congratulations to CypherLeap in achieving CREST (International) accreditation for  Penetration Testing. This is a strong endorsement for their team, and the commitment to robust business processes, data security, and testing methodologies,” said Nick Benson – CEO of CREST. “It also reflects the growing influence of CREST (International) across Australasia and the increasing demand for highly-skilled penetration testing services from trusted providers that can demonstrate internationally-recognised validation.”

Why It Matters

In a market saturated with providers, CREST (International) accreditation provides a clear point of differentiation. It ensures that CypherLeap’s clients, from local Sydney enterprises to international firms, benefit from validated technical expertise, methodological rigour, and a strict code of professional ethics.

This accreditation complements CypherLeap’s broader capabilities in IRAP and PCI DSS assessments, GRC consulting, and dedicated Engineering & SOC services. This holistic approach allows the firm to help organisations identify security gaps and proactively build resilient defences.

About CypherLeap

CypherLeap is a boutique cybersecurity consultancy headquartered in Sydney, Australia. Led by Ananthu Shaji, the firm specialises in offensive security, web application testing, and advanced social engineering, paired with robust GRC and managed security capabilities.

For more information on CypherLeap’s accredited services, visit www.cypherleap.com or contact [email protected].

About CREST (International)

CREST (International) is a global not-for-profit organisation dedicated to raising standards and building trust in the cybersecurity profession.

Established in the UK in 2006, CREST (International) works with its international community of Member companies and practitioners to promote excellence, integrity and professional development across the cyber ecosystem. Through robust standards, accreditation frameworks and skills pathways, CREST (International) helps organisations buy cybersecurity services with confidence and supports practitioners in developing trusted, globally-recognised careers.

Working closely with governments, regulators and industry stakeholders, CREST (International) plays an active role in shaping policy, strengthening market confidence, and supporting the growth of a resilient, professional cybersecurity sector worldwide.

For more information, visit www.crest-approved.org

Sydney-Based CypherLeap Achieves Global CREST Accreditation for Penetration Testing

You may be interested in reading this...