Buzz
Not all hackers are malevolent. In mainstream media, the term 'hacker' is often linked to cybercrime, but a true hacker can be anyone, regardless of their intentions. They employ knowledge of software and hardware to break through and bypass security measures on computers, devices, or networks.
Hacking itself is not inherently illegal, unless hackers compromise a system without the owner's consent. Many companies and government agencies turn to 'hackers' to safeguard their systems.
There are two primary factors to determine the type of hacker you're facing: first is their motivation, and second is whether they violate the law.
White Hat, Grey Hat, and Black Hat Hackers Explained
Black Hat Hacker
Similar to other hackers, black hat hackers leverage their extensive knowledge to 'intrude' computer networks and bypass security protocols. Additionally, they take responsibility for creating malicious software (malware) - a method employed to access systems. Notable examples of malware, such as WannaCry, Petya, or EternalRocks, pose threats to users' important documents.
Their purpose in spreading WannaCry, Petya, or EternalRocks is often driven by personal gain or profit, but these hackers may also engage in cyber espionage or resist cyber crimes.
The methods used to combat malware like WannaCry, Petya, or EternalRocks may involve black hat hackers, who, as novices, use malicious software to steal data. This includes financial information, personal details, and user login credentials. Beyond data theft, these black hat hackers also attempt to modify or destroy user data.
White Hat Hacker
White hat hackers choose to use their 'powers' for good rather than ill, often referred to as 'ethical hackers.' Sometimes, white hat hackers are even employed by security companies, and their primary mission is to identify security vulnerabilities through hacking.
White hat hackers employ similar methods to black hat hackers, with the key difference being that white hat hackers perform these actions with the system owner's permission, making it a legal endeavor. This means that in the presence of ransomware like WannaCry, Petya, or EternalRocks, white hat hackers are tasked with preventing their intrusion into network systems.
The mission of white hat hackers involves conducting penetration tests, examining on-site security systems, and assessing vulnerabilities for companies.
Grey Hat Hacker
In life, there are gray areas that are neither black nor white. Grey hat hackers represent a fusion of activities from black hat and white hat hackers.
Grey hat hackers typically seek vulnerabilities in a system without the owner's permission and without requiring extensive knowledge. If any issues or vulnerabilities are found, they will inform the owner, sometimes requesting a small fee to address the problem. If the owner doesn't respond or comply, these hackers might expose these 'issues' online to inform the public.
These types of hackers are generally not harmful. Their primary purpose is to discover something they find intriguing. Grey hat hackers usually refrain from exploiting discovered vulnerabilities. However, this hacking approach is still considered illegal as these hackers lack the owner's permission before attacking their systems.
Here is all that Mytour wants to introduce to you about white hat, grey hat, and black hat hackers. Remember that not all hackers are malicious; determining whether a hacker is good or bad depends on their intentions. To safeguard your devices, it's advisable to choose and use reliable and effective antivirus software. There are many reputable antivirus programs available, such as BKAV, KIS, for you to choose from.
