What type of hacker is known for using their skills for ethical purposes, such as testing the security of computer systems?
White-hat hacker
Describe the characteristics of a gray-hat hacker.
They can do both black-hat and white-hat activities.
What are the main intentions of black-hat hackers?
To use their skills to exploit computer systems for personal gain or malicious intent, breaking laws and ethical boundaries.
Give an example of a task a white-hat hacker might perform to help improve cybersecurity.
Find vulnerabilities or security risks and fix them.
What distinguishes a gray-hat hacker from both white-hat and black-hat hackers?
Black hat hackers access systems illegally, with malicious intent, and often for personal gain, white hat hackers work with companies to help identify weaknesses in their systems. Gray hat hackers can be both.
Provide an example of a cybercrime that a black-hat hacker might engage in.
Spreading malware, stealing sensitive data, breaching security systems, and conducting cyberattacks, causing immense harm.
Why are white-hat hackers often employed by companies or organizations?
To strengthen their cybersecurity.
How might a gray-hat hacker's actions be perceived differently compared to white-hat hackers?
Their actions might be perceived as unethical or illegal, if they act without the owner's permission or knowledge.
How can individuals and organizations protect themselves from black-hat hackers?
Using firewalls, and security testing.