Ethical hacking has become one of the most prominent trends in cyber security over the last few years. The idea that you could take complete control of a source via computer technology opened up many new opportunities for attackers. However, simply harnessing these tools doesn’t mean that you can use them to commit crimes.
Many professionals involved in ethical hacking do their best to avoid getting involved in illegal activities. However, even ethical hackers can end up getting hacked from time to time. Ethical hacking is the practice of using computer technology to gain unauthorized access to confidential data or servers and then reporting back with insight into security weaknesses.
It’s very different from cyber terrorism and hacking for profit, which we’ll discuss further down this article.
What is ethical hacking?
Ethical hacking is the use of computer technology to gain unauthorized access to confidential data or servers and then reporting back with insight into security weaknesses. It’s very different from cyber terrorism and hacking for profit, which we’ll discuss further down this article.
A quick refresher: A cyber security breach is the unauthorized entry into a system or data by an unauthorized person. Typically, this is done to obtain sensitive information such as passwords or financial data. However, cyber security breaches can occur for a variety of reasons, such as a penetration of the network or an access by an unauthorized third party.
Ethical hacking: A brief history
Ethical hacking was first introduced to the cybersecurity industry in 2009 as a way for professionals to report on and improve existing cybersecurity practices. The idea was to identify weaknesses and suggest improvements within an organization’s computer system architecture.
In the first phase of the program, which was known as the “self-audit,” participants were encouraged to identify their own areas of weakness and offer recommendations on how to improve. This led to the formation of a training program in which industry professionals learn about common problems and then demonstrate their knowledge by participating in “audits.”
After the self-audit phase, the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) began to offer an ethical hacking certification program. The program was put together in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania’s cybersecurity program and was open to professionals who desired to improve their skills. The certification program was discontinued in 2017.
Why get involved in ethical hacking?
There are a number of reasons why you might get interested in ethical hacking. Some of them include: To learn more about a company or organization and its security practices.
To gain insight into a company’s security practices. To improve your skills and gain a competitive edge against other job applicants. To demonstrate your understanding of the nuances of cyber security. To protect your job and save your company money.
Types of ethical hacking
There are a number of different types of ethical hacking, and we’ll discuss them below.
Active Hacking: Active hacking is when you try to access a system or network without first gaining permission. It’s usually done for malicious or illegal purposes. Passive Hacking: In passive hacking, you try to gain access without using any tools or techniques. This could be done for example by using a method called piggybacking.
Covert Hacking: Covert hacking is when you try to get access to a system or network without being detected. This could be achieved by using tools that mask your traffic or by using encryption in order to keep your traffic from being seen.
Blind Hacking: Blind hacking is when you don’t know whether or not you’ve successfully gained access to a system or network. This could be achieved by using tools that are hidden by design or by using default credentials that haven’t been changed by an organization.
How to pass the Ethical Hacking Interviews
First, you’ll need to prepare for the interviews. Every cybersecurity company is different, but most have processes in place to help prepare an applicant for the interviews. Some companies have pre-recorded videos that candidates can watch before the interview. Others have on-site training for the candidates.
And some companies have combination of the two. Here are a couple of tips for getting ready for the interviews: Make sure you’re up-to-date on your skills and understanding of the industry. This can be done by taking any industry-related certifications or board certification exams as well as any related coursework.
Make sure you have a good understanding of the environment and network you’ll be working in. This is important both for understanding how you’ll get into the network as well as understanding how you’ll get out. Make sure you understand the company and its culture. This will help you understand how you’ll fit in and why you’re a good fit for the company.
Bottom line
Finally, when it comes to ethical hacking, it’s important to remember that you don’t just try to access a system or network unadvisedly. You know exactly what you’re doing, and you’re doing it correctly.
So, don’t be afraid to share your vulnerabilities and ask for help. If you’re having trouble navigating a network or system, ask a colleague or an expert in that field for help. You might be surprised who you can find who wants to help you out.