What is Ethical Hacking? A Comprehensive Guide [Updated]

The term ‘Hacker’ has an interesting evolution. It was initially coined to describe experts who used their skills to re-develop mainframe systems, increasing their efficiency and allowing them to multi-task. Over time, the term has come to routinely describe skilled programmers who gain unauthorized access to computer systems by exploiting weaknesses or using bugs motivated by malice or mischief. For example, hackers can create algorithms to crack passwords, penetrate networks, or disrupt network services.

The primary motive of malicious/unethical hacking involves stealing valuable information or financial gain. However, not all hacking is bad. This brings us to the second type of hacking: Ethical hacking. Unlike its malicious counterpart, ethical hacking is a practice that involves using the same techniques as malicious hackers to identify and fix security vulnerabilities. In this article, you will learn about ethical hacking and more.

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What is Ethical Hacking?

Ethical hacking is the proactive, authorized practice of detecting vulnerabilities in an application, system, or organization’s infrastructure. By bypassing system security, ethical hackers identify potential data breaches and threats in a network, aiming to prevent them before they occur. They investigate the system or network for weak points that malicious hackers can exploit or destroy, thereby improving the security footprint to withstand attacks better or divert them.

The company that owns the system or network allows Cybersecurity engineers to perform such activities to test the system’s defenses. This process is legal and meticulously planned and approved, ensuring that it is controlled and secure, in stark contrast to the illegal and disruptive nature of malicious hacking.

Ethical hackers are trying to investigate the system or network for weak points that malicious hackers can exploit or destroy. They aim to collect and analyze information to devise strategies to strengthen the system's security, network, or applications. By doing so, they can significantly enhance the security footprint, making it more resilient to attacks or even diverting them.

Organizations hire ethical hackers to investigate the vulnerabilities of their systems and networks and develop solutions to prevent data breaches. They check for critical vulnerabilities include but are not limited to:

• Injection attacks
• Changes in security settings
• Exposure to sensitive data
• Breach in authentication protocols
• Components used in the system or network

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Key Concepts of Ethical Hacking

1. Reconnaissance (Footprinting and Information Gathering): This is the first phase of ethical hacking, in which the hacker gathers as much information as possible about the target before launching an attack. This can include passive methods like Google searches or active methods like network scanning.
2. Scanning: In this phase, ethical hackers use tools to identify vulnerabilities in the target system. Techniques like port scanning, network mapping, and vulnerability scanning are commonly used.
3. Gaining Access: This involves exploiting vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to systems. Ethical hackers use the same techniques as malicious hackers but do so with permission.
4. Maintaining Access: The ethical hacker may try to maintain their foothold in the system once access is gained. This can involve creating backdoors or installing software that allows re-entry without detection.
5. Clearing Tracks: Ethical hackers ensure they do not leave any traces of their activities. This involves clearing logs, covering up footprints, and ensuring that the target system does not detect the hacking attempt.
6. Reporting: This is the final and most crucial phase, during which ethical hackers document their findings, including vulnerabilities discovered, methods used, and recommendations for securing the system. They then share this report with the organization to help them strengthen their defenses.
7. Penetration Testing: A simulated cyberattack conducted by ethical hackers to test a system's security. It involves the above phases and aims to identify and fix security flaws before malicious actors can exploit them.
8. Legal and Ethical Standards: Ethical hackers must adhere to strict legal and ethical guidelines, ensuring they have permission to test the systems and that their activities comply with all relevant laws and regulations.

Types of Ethical Hacking

Here are the primary types of ethical hacking:

1. Web Application Hacking

Involves testing web applications for vulnerabilities like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and security misconfigurations. Ethical hackers focus on identifying flaws that could allow unauthorized access or data breaches.

2. Network Hacking

Focuses on identifying weaknesses in a network's security. This includes scanning for open ports, identifying vulnerable services, and exploiting weaknesses in network protocols to gain unauthorized access or disrupt services.

3. Wireless Network Hacking

Targets wireless networks to find and exploit vulnerabilities in Wi-Fi security protocols like WEP, WPA, and WPA2. The goal is to gain unauthorized access to the wireless network or intercept data.

4. System Hacking

Involves hacking into individual systems to gain unauthorized access, escalate privileges, or execute malicious actions. Techniques include password cracking, exploiting system vulnerabilities, and installing malicious software.

5. Social Engineering

Exploits human psychology to gain unauthorized access to systems or information. Ethical hackers use phishing, baiting, or pretexting to trick users into revealing sensitive information or performing actions that compromise security.

Also Read: A Complete Guide to Social Engineering

6. Ethical Hacking of Mobile Platforms

Focuses on identifying vulnerabilities in mobile operating systems (iOS, Android) and applications. This includes testing for insecure data storage, insufficient transport layer protection, and weak authentication mechanisms.

7. Physical Hacking

Involves gaining unauthorized physical access to facilities or devices. Ethical hackers may test the security of physical entry points, such as doors, locks, and biometric systems, to identify vulnerabilities that could allow unauthorized access.

8. Cloud Security Testing

Involves assessing the security of cloud infrastructure, applications, and services. Ethical hackers test for misconfigurations, insecure APIs, and other vulnerabilities that could be exploited in a cloud environment.

9. IoT (Internet of Things) Hacking

Focuses on identifying security flaws in IoT devices and networks. This includes testing the security of smart devices, wearable technology, and other connected devices to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

10. Reverse Engineering

Involves analyzing software or hardware to discover vulnerabilities, understand how it works, or develop exploits. Ethical hackers use reverse engineering to uncover hidden flaws or malicious code within applications or firmware.

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What are the Different Types of Hackers?

Here are the different types of hackers:

• White Hat Hackers: Ethical hackers who use their skills to identify and fix security vulnerabilities for organizations. They work with permission and follow legal guidelines.
• Black Hat Hackers: Malicious hackers who exploit vulnerabilities for personal gain, causing harm to individuals, organizations, or systems. They operate illegally.
• Grey Hat Hackers: Hackers who fall between white and black hats. They may exploit vulnerabilities without permission but usually with no malicious intent, often revealing flaws publicly or to the organization afterward.
• Script Kiddies: Inexperienced hackers who use pre-written scripts or tools to carry out attacks, often needing a deep understanding of the underlying technology.
• Hacktivists: Hackers who use their skills to promote political or social causes. They often deface websites or release sensitive information to support their agenda.
• State-sponsored Hackers: Hackers employed or sponsored by governments to conduct espionage, cyber warfare, or surveillance activities against other nations, organizations, or individuals.
• Cybercriminals: Hackers who engage in illegal activities for financial gain, such as stealing credit card information, conducting ransomware attacks, or running phishing scams.
• Insider Threats: Employees or individuals within an organization who misuse their access to systems and data intentionally or unintentionally for malicious purposes or personal gain.
• Whistleblower Hackers: Individuals who expose unethical or illegal activities within organizations by hacking into systems and leaking sensitive information to the public or authorities.
• Red Hat Hackers: Vigilante hackers who target black hat hackers and cybercriminals, often using aggressive methods to shut down their operations.
• Blue Hat Hackers: Security professionals invited by organizations to test their systems for vulnerabilities. They are typically not employed by the organization but are external experts.

What are the Roles and Responsibilities of an Ethical Hacker?

Ethical hackers must follow specific guidelines to perform hacking legally. A good hacker knows their responsibility and adheres to all ethical guidelines. Here are the most important rules of ethical hacking:

• An ethical hacker must obtain complete approval from the system's owner before performing any security assessment on the system or network.
• Determine the scope of their assessment and make known their plan to the organization.
• Report any security breaches and vulnerabilities found in the system or network.
• Keep their discoveries confidential. As their purpose is to secure the system or network, ethical hackers should agree to and respect their non-disclosure agreement.
• After checking the system for vulnerabilities, erase all traces of the hack. This prevents malicious hackers from entering the system through the identified loopholes.

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Key Benefits of Ethical Hacking

• Ethical hacking helps organizations discover security flaws in their systems, applications, and networks before malicious hackers can exploit them.
• Ethical hacking helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data by proactively testing security measures reducing the risk of data breaches.
• Regular ethical hacking assessments enable organizations to strengthen their security posture by addressing identified vulnerabilities and implementing best practices.
• Ethical hacking helps organizations meet regulatory and industry standards, such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS, by demonstrating a commitment to security and data protection.
• By prioritizing security through ethical hacking, organizations can enhance their reputation and build trust with customers, showing they are committed to safeguarding their information.
• Ethical hacking provides valuable insights into potential attack vectors, helping organizations train employees and raise awareness about security risks.
• Identifying and fixing vulnerabilities early through ethical hacking can save organizations significant costs associated with data breaches, legal liabilities, and reputation damage.
• Ethical hacking allows organizations to approach risk management proactively, identifying and mitigating potential threats before they become critical issues.
• Ethical hacking can help organizations improve their incident response plans by simulating real-world attacks and testing the effectiveness of their defenses.
• Ethical hacking supports innovation by ensuring the security of new products and services and helps organizations launch new initiatives confidently.

Skills Required to Become an Ethical Hacker

1. Strong Knowledge of Networking

Understanding network protocols, IP addressing, subnetting, firewalls, VPNs, and network security devices is essential for identifying and exploiting network vulnerabilities.

2. Proficiency in Programming and Scripting

Knowledge of programming languages like Python, Java, and C++ and scripting languages like Bash or PowerShell is crucial for writing exploits, automating tasks, and understanding how software vulnerabilities arise.

3. Familiarity with OS

Expertise in different operating systems, especially Linux, Windows, and macOS, as ethical hackers need to navigate and exploit these environments.

4. Understanding of Security Tools

Proficiency in using various security tools like Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, Burp Suite, and Nessus for scanning, penetration testing, and vulnerability assessment.

5. Knowledge of Cryptography

Understanding cryptographic techniques, algorithms, and how they can be used or broken is vital for securing data and identifying potential weaknesses in encryption protocols.

6. Awareness of Cybersecurity Trends

Staying updated with the latest threats, attack techniques, and security technologies is crucial for effective ethical hacking.

7. Understanding of Web Technologies

Knowledge of web development, HTML, JavaScript, and SQL is essential for identifying and exploiting web application vulnerabilities like SQL injection and XSS.

8. Social Engineering Tactics

Familiarity with social engineering techniques to understand how attackers exploit human psychology to gain unauthorized access.

9. Certifications

Earning certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) can validate and enhance your skills in the field.

Limitations of Ethical Hacking

1. Scope and Permission Constraints
2. Time and Resource Limitations
3. Potential for Human Error
4. Evolving Threat Landscape
5. Reliance on Tools

Conclusion

Ethical hacking is a challenging study area as it requires mastery of everything that makes up a system or network. This is why certifications, which are crucial in this field, have become popular among aspiring ethical hackers. 

This article has helped you understand what ethical hacking is and the roles and responsibilities of an ethical hacker. Now, suppose you are planning to step into the world of cybersecurity. In that case, you can quickly jump in with the relevant CEH v12 - Certified Ethical Hacking Course and open up a world of opportunities for growth and advancement in your cybersecurity career.

FAQs

1. What is Ethical Hacking and what is it used for?

A permitted attempt to acquire unauthorized access to a computer system, application, or data is ethical hacking. Duplicating the techniques and behaviors of malicious attackers is part of carrying out an ethical hack.

2. Is Ethical Hacking a good career?

Yes, it is an excellent career if you are interested in ethical hacking and cybersecurity, but it takes a thorough understanding of IT.

3. Who is best suited for a career in Ethical Hacking?

To become an ethical hacker, a candidate must comprehend wired and wireless networks. They must also be familiar with operating systems, particularly Windows and Linux, firewalls, and file systems.

4. What are common career paths for someone in Ethical Hacking?

Penetration testers, Vulnerability assessors, Information security analysts, Security analysts, Certified ethical hackers (CEH), Ethical hackers, Security consultants, Security engineers/architects, and Information security managers are common job titles in ethical hacking.

5. Is Ethical Hacking legal?

Yes, it is lawful as long as it is done with the owner's permission to uncover flaws in the system and provide ways to fix them. It also safeguards the system from additional damage performed by the hacker.

6. What are the different types of hackers?

There are three sorts of hackers: white-hat hackers, gray-hat hackers, and black-hat hackers. Each hacker type hacks for a specific reason, a cause, or both.

7. What skills do Ethical Hackers need to know?

Information security and ethical hacking, reconnaissance techniques, system hacking phases and attack techniques, network and perimeter hacking, web application hacking, wireless network hacking, mobile, Internet of Things (IoT), and operational technology (OT) hacking, cloud computing, and cryptography are some of the key skills that ethical hackers must possess.

8. Why do hackers use Linux?

There are two primary causes for this. First, because Linux is an open-source operating system, its source code is publicly available. This means that Linux can be easily modified or customized. Second, numerous Linux security distros can also be used as Linux hacking software.

9. Can I learn about Ethical Hacking online?

Yes, you can learn ethical hacking online. You can start with Simplilearn’s free Ethical Hacking for Beginners course.

10. What qualifications do you need to pursue the Ethical Hacking course?

After high school, aspirants can pursue a Bachelor's or Master's degree in computer science, information technology, or data security to become an ethical hacker. Online platforms also provide a variety of ethical hacking credentials and certification courses.

11. Is an Ethical Hacking Course worth it?

Learning ethical hacking is useful at any moment. Make certain that you fully comprehend the principles and apply them appropriately. It has a wide range of job opportunities and pays well. Undoubtedly, you will be saddled with a lot of duty, but such a solution is well worth it.

12. How much money does an ethical hacker make?

In India, the wage of an ethical hacker starts at INR 1.77 lakh per year and can reach INR 40 lakh per year. The bonus for this function ranges from INR 5,000 to INR 2 lakh, with a maximum of INR 5.11 lakh in split profits.

13. What is the difference between ethical hacking and cyber security?

Ethical hacking is performed by 'ethical' hackers who are legitimate or legal hackers. Their goal is to hack with the owner's consent and submit a report on the hack. Cybersecurity, on the other hand, is controlled by Cyber Security professionals whose primary purpose is to protect the system from hostile actions.

14. How can I become an ethical hacker?

To become an ethical hacker, you must first master at least one programming language and have a working knowledge of other common languages such as Python, SQL, C++, and C. Ethical hackers must also have good problem-solving abilities and the capacity to think critically in order to develop and test novel security solutions.