Hacking denotes unauthorized access to a computer or network. Often performed by one or more hackers. They achieve their goal by altering the security systems. This deviates from the actual purpose of the system
All hackers are not evil The word “hacker” when used in mainstream media usually connotes cybercriminals. A hacker regardless of intentions can be anyone who breaks down and bypasses the security systems on a computer, network, or device.
Types of Hackers
Hackers are generally categorized into White Hat, Black Hat, and Grey Hat. The category of a hacker is determined by two main factors; the aim, and whether they are breaking the law or not.
Black Hat Hackers
A black hat hacker refers to a person who seeks to gain unauthorized access to a system or network. To manipulate them for vicious purposes. They tend to compromise their target system without any permission.
They try to cause harm and damage by security system compromise, altering the functions of networks and websites. They write malware, a method of accessing these systems. They usually do these to obtain passwords, financial data, and other personal information.
Their main motive is usually financial or personal gain. Still, they can also indulge in cyberattacks, cyber espionage, and other forms of cybercrime. Black hat hackers are comprised of amateur hackers who are just getting started by writing and circulating malware and experienced hackers whose job is to go about stealing essential data like financial information, login details, and other personal pieces of information.
They do not only seek to steal data but also to modify or destroy data.
White Hat Hackers
They use their skills and knowledge for good rather than evil. White hat hackers, also known as “ethical hackers” can be contractors working for companies or paid employees who are security specialists that help to find loopholes in security via hacking and strengthen them.
White hat hackers utilize the same hacking techniques that are used by black hats; the only exception is that they work only with the permission and authorization of the owner of the system, making it a completely legal activity. They perform vulnerability assessments for companies, test in-place security systems, and perform penetration testing. There are training conferences, courses, and certifications available for ethical hacking.
Grey Hat Hackers
Just like in life, we have grey areas that are neither white nor black. Grey hat hackers are a mixture of the black hat and the white hat. They often search for vulnerabilities in a system without authorization by the owner, but not with malicious intent. When they discover problems, they usually notify the owner of the issues. Often, they attach a small fee to help fix the problem. If the owner does not comply, sometimes these hackers share their discovery with others.
These types of hackers do not have ulterior motives or malicious intentions; they are after discoveries for themselves. They do not exploit the vulnerabilities they discover to the detriment of the owner. However, since the hacker attempted to access and compromise the system without authorization and permission from the owner, it is considered illegal.
Conclusion
People often use the word “hacker” to denote negative intents when referred to, but it is essential to note that there are hackers created for good purposes and intentions. Without the white hackers who eliminate vulnerabilities before they capitalized on by the black hats, cyber crimes would have been a lot more than it is now.
