Hacking vs. Ethical Hacking
Tags: hacking, ethicalhacking, cybersecurity, infosectrain
Published: 2023-08-24 10:21:30

In today’s modern technology, we are using the internet extensively to meet our online needs. We indulge our sensitive data in our regular online resources such as banking information, mobile number, e-mail, and Aadhaar details to have a hassle-free browsing experience. If something unnatural happens to our data, then comes the question of whether it is hacked. The term hack is a nightmare for the common person, but for the hacker, it is a way to break into the system to attempt a security breach. This comprehensive blog is curated to provide the difference between hacking and ethical hacking.

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## **What is Hacking?**
Hacking is a process of accessing a digital device or network, such as a system, laptop, etc., legally or illegally by individuals, and such individuals are known as hackers. Hacking might not always be done to fulfill bad intentions like malicious attacks; it can also be characterized as an unlawful activity by hackers. When developers overlook errors in the software or system, such errors create an attack surface that hackers further use to breach into the system.

## **Types of Hackers**
A hacker is a skillful person who can access the system or network in an authorized or unauthorized manner. There are different types of hackers:

1. Black hat hacker

2. White hat hacker

3. Gray hat hacker

## **What is Ethical Hacking?**
Ethical hacking is the practice of probing IT systems, networks, and software for vulnerabilities and security flaws. Authorized experts, known as ethical hackers, employ their skills to uncover weaknesses, helping organizations fortify their digital defenses against potential threats. Ethical hacking helps to enhance the security of the system or network and prevent the organization from potential threats. 

## **Types of Ethical Hacking**
The following are the various types of ethical hacking:

1. Hacking wireless networks

2. Web application hacking

3. Web server hacking

4. System hacking

5. Social engineering

## **Hacking vs. Ethical Hacking**
**Hacking** 
Hacking can be done to steal sensitive information from individuals or organizations for illegal activity. 
Hackers possess bad intentions to attack the system for money. 
Hackers try to access the system or network in an unauthorized way. 
It is an Illegal activity and can be considered a cybercrime.
It is performed by hackers known as black or gray hat hackers. 
Hacking is intended to breach the security of the system. 

**Ethical Hacking**
Ethical hacking can be done to identify vulnerabilities in an organization’s network or system. 
Hackers have good intentions to safeguard the organization’s assets from attacks. 
Hackers try to access the system or network in an authorized way. 
It is a legal activity authorized by the company or individual and can not be considered a cybercrime.
It is performed by hackers known as white hat hackers. 
Ethical hacking is intended to enhance the security posture and prevent threats. 

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