Black hat (computer security)

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Black Hat Hackers are the primary focus of this text. These individuals are notorious for their malicious activities, infiltrating computer systems to distribute damaging malware and pilfer various kinds of data. They may operate solo or within criminal networks, causing substantial personal or financial harm through their actions. Notable black hat hacking events include the infamous 1979 hack of The Ark by Kevin Mitnick and the destructive WannaCry ransomware attack. Ethical hackers, also known as white hat hackers, are their opposites, striving to discover system weaknesses to improve security. Meanwhile, grey hat^[1] hackers may push the limits of legality or ethics, but without malevolent intent. Black hat hackers are key players in cybercrime, representing a significant danger to individuals, businesses, and government entities.

Terms definitions

1. ↑ grey hat. Grey Hat is a term that first emerged in 1996, primarily used in the realm of computer security and hacking. It has been repeatedly interpreted and reinterpreted by an array of hacker groups and communities over time. A grey hat hacker is recognized for their practices that, while ethical, may sometimes border on the legally dubious. They frequently uncover and reveal security flaws, thereby encouraging enhancements in cybersecurity. These grey hat methods also find their place in the field of Search Engine Optimization (SEO), where they denote tactics that, although not strictly prohibited, might still be deemed unethical. The grey hat community is a varied one, disseminating knowledge across different platforms and wrestling with the moral consequences of their actions. It's crucial to note that while grey hat practices may contribute to progress in security, they should be counterbalanced with a regard for privacy rights.

Black hat (computer security) (Wikipedia)

A black hat (black hat hacker or blackhat) is a computer hacker who violates laws or ethical standards for nefarious purposes, such as cybercrime, cyberwarfare, or malice. These acts can range from piracy to identify theft. A Black hat is often referred to as a "cracker".

The term originates from 1950s westerns, with "bad guys" (criminals) typically depicted as having worn black hats and "good guys" (heroes) wearing white ones. In the same way, black hat hacking is contrasted with the more ethical white hat approach to hacking. Additionally, there exists a third category, called grey hat hacking, characterized by individuals who hack, usually with good intentions but by illegal means.

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