What Are the Types of Ethical Hackers?

The first step in the ethical hacking methodology is reconnaissance, also known as the information gathering phase. The aim of the reconnaissance phase is to collect as much information as possible about the target. For example, an attacker will likely collect passwords and essential details about employees. They can do this by using tools or search engines. Once they have the required information, they will begin the actual hacking process. There are some general rules for ethical hacking.

Another important characteristic of ethical hacking is that it is performed with the intention of helping the user or owner of a business by identifying security flaws. Business users use their computers and virtual networks to store tons of customer information, and as a result, they become an attractive target for hackers. ethical hackers can identify and correct these vulnerabilities, thereby reducing the damage done by hackers. For this reason, they should always be trained to prevent their own actions from compromising the security of the company.

Besides reconnaissance, ethical hackers also conduct vulnerability assessments. Ethical hackers use automated tools and techniques to determine a target’s vulnerabilities. They conduct their tests under the strict guidelines of realism to ensure that their work is not detrimental to the organization. During their evaluation, they document the steps they took to compromise a system or attack it. In some cases, they may even break into a target’s premises.

There are also two types of hackers: black hats and white hats. Black hats use malware and other illegal tactics. While white hats generally don’t harm the target, black hats use malware to attack companies and gain information. In this sense, the difference between black hats and ethical hackers is a matter of semantics, not intent. Nevertheless, both types of hacking are considered illegal.

Amongst the different types of hacker, government-sponsored and non-state-sponsored are different. The former are appointed by their governments to access foreign countries’ networks and steal sensitive information. They report back to the government and care about their nation’s security. Malicious insiders, on the other hand, use hacktivist techniques to gain access to a government network. In some cases, these hackers use the information they find there to benefit themselves.

Some industries welcome the use of grey hat hacking. The latter group of hackers can move from white hat to grey hat as their expertise increases. While ethical hacking may not be directly related to legality, it does offer a variety of employment opportunities and a well-paid career path. If you love a challenge, ethical hacking may be for you. The possibilities for earning huge sums of money are endless.

If you’re serious about becoming an ethical hacker, you’ll need to get a degree in computer science, security, or information technology. Then, you can choose a certification. Some of the more popular courses that aspiring ethical hackers should take are the CompTIA A+, the CCNA, and the GSEC (Computer Science and Engineering Council) exams. Some of these certifications are industry standards, and are required for many IT positions.