Every computer system has vulnerabilities, as demonstrated everyday by hackers. So who's going to stop them? Hackers, it turns out.Although the term "ethical hacking" seems contradictory, it is really necessary and legal when used to find and remedy system faults.

Universities, businesses, governments, and individuals all need to secure private information and intellectual property. In 2020, the FBI received a record number of reports about online crime in the United States, amounting to damages of almost $4.1 billion (PDF, 2.6 MB). Here comes the ethical hacker, sometimes known as the internet's "immune system," according to cyber security specialist Keren Elazari. 

How can you bolster this digital defense system by becoming an ethical hacker? Continue reading to find out more about ethical hacking, the knowledge and training needed, the employment market, and resources for safe and authorized hacking behavior. We'll also go into the area of ethical hacking contests, where hackers can win large sums of money; in 2022, one hacking competition gave over $1 million in prize money.

|| What Is an Ethical Hacker?

Hackers locate and take advantage of holes and flaws in computer systems. The same vulnerabilities are found by ethical hackers, but they do so with the goal of addressing them. Although the skills, characteristics, and methods needed for harmful and ethical hacking are similar, their goals are very different. 

Unauthorized efforts to gain access to computer systems or networks are made by malicious hackers. Organizations then give permission to ethical hackers to find and seal those gaps. In essence, businesses pay ethical hackers to assist in defending their data and systems from malevolent hackers.

A cyber security startup led by American soldiers, Purplesec, claims that during the COVID-19 pandemic, cybercrime surged by 600% worldwide and would cost $10.5 trillion by 2025. Malicious hackers have the ability to harm medical devices in addition to sensitive data. For instance, the late hacker Barnaby Jack provided instructions on how to compromise insulin pumps and pacemakers in order to close the security flaw that allowed hackers access. Ethical hacking had the ability to save lives in this particular case.

|| Types of Hackers

Hackers are individuals who use their technical skills to gain unauthorized access to systems, networks, and data. Depending on their intent and methods, hackers are categorized into several types:

• White Hat Hackers: White hat hackers, also known as ethical hackers, are cybersecurity professionals who use their hacking skills for defensive purposes. They help organizations by identifying and fixing security vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. Their work includes performing penetration tests, vulnerability assessments, and security audits to strengthen an organization's security posture. White hat hackers operate legally and with the explicit permission of the system owner.
• Black Hat Hackers: Black hat hackers, often referred to as malicious hackers, engage in illegal activities with malicious intent. They exploit vulnerabilities for personal gain, financial profit, or to cause harm. Black hat activities include stealing sensitive data, spreading malware, conducting cyberattacks, and defacing websites. Their actions are criminal and unethical, posing significant threats to individuals, organizations, and governments.
• Grey Hat Hackers: Grey hat hackers fall somewhere between white hat and black hat hackers. They do not have explicit permission to access systems but do so with the intent of discovering vulnerabilities and reporting them, sometimes for a fee or recognition. Although their intentions are not malicious, their actions are not entirely legal or ethical. They operate in a legal and moral gray area, often raising questions about the legality and ethics of their activities.
• Script Kiddies: Script kiddies are individuals who lack advanced technical skills and rely on pre-written scripts or tools to carry out attacks. They often use publicly available exploits and hacking software to deface websites, launch DoS attacks, or engage in other disruptive activities. While they pose less of a threat than skilled hackers, their actions can still cause significant damage and disruption.
• Hacktivists: Hacktivists are hackers who use their skills to promote political, social, or ideological causes. They engage in activities such as website defacement, data breaches, and DDoS attacks to draw attention to their causes and effect change. Notable hacktivist groups include Anonymous and LulzSec. While their motives are often aligned with activism, their methods are illegal and can cause widespread disruption.
• Nation-State Hackers: Nation-state hackers are highly skilled individuals or groups sponsored by governments to conduct cyber-espionage, sabotage, and warfare. Their objectives include gathering intelligence, disrupting critical infrastructure, and influencing political outcomes. These hackers often have access to advanced resources and capabilities, making them a significant threat to national security. Examples include the Russian group Fancy Bear and the North Korean group Lazarus.
• Cybercriminals: Cybercriminals are hackers motivated by financial gain. They engage in activities such as identity theft, credit card fraud, ransomware attacks, and selling stolen data on the dark web. Cybercriminals operate through organized crime networks and use sophisticated techniques to evade law enforcement and maximize profits.
• Insider Threats: Insider threats are individuals within an organization who misuse their access to systems and data for malicious purposes. These can include disgruntled employees, contractors, or business partners who leak sensitive information, sabotage systems, or engage in fraud. Insider threats are particularly dangerous because they have legitimate access and knowledge of the organization's systems and processes.

Understanding the different types of hackers helps organizations develop targeted strategies to defend against various cyber threats. By recognizing the motives and methods of each type, cybersecurity professionals can better anticipate and mitigate potential risks.

|| Where Can I Carry Out Ethical Hacking?

Practicing ethical hacking is crucial for developing and honing your skills. Here are some of the best platforms and resources where you can safely and legally practice ethical hacking techniques:

• Hack The Box: Hack The Box offers a variety of challenges and virtual environments where users can practice hacking skills in a controlled and legal setting. It includes a wide range of scenarios, from beginner to advanced, allowing users to test their skills on different systems and vulnerabilities.
• TryHackMe: TryHackMe provides interactive cybersecurity training through practical, hands-on lessons and challenges. It offers guided labs and tutorials for beginners, as well as more advanced tasks for experienced users. The platform is designed to be accessible and educational.
• OverTheWire: OverTheWire hosts various war games that help users learn and practice security concepts in a fun and engaging way. Each game focuses on different aspects of cybersecurity, from basic Linux command-line skills to advanced exploitation techniques.
• VulnHub: VulnHub offers a collection of vulnerable virtual machines (VMs) that users can download and practice on in their own isolated environments. Each VM is designed to mimic real-world scenarios, providing valuable hands-on experience with different types of vulnerabilities and attack vectors.
• CTF Platforms: Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions are a great way to practice ethical hacking. Platforms like CTFtime aggregate various CTF events from around the world. Participating in these competitions helps sharpen your skills in a competitive and collaborative environment.
• Bug Bounty Programs: Joining bug bounty programs is another excellent way to practice ethical hacking. Companies like HackerOne and Bugcrowd run programs where ethical hackers can find and report security vulnerabilities in exchange for rewards. These programs provide real-world experience and the opportunity to earn money while learning.
• Immersive Labs: Immersive Labs offers hands-on cybersecurity labs that cover a wide range of topics, from basic to advanced levels. The platform focuses on practical skills and provides an interactive environment for learning and practicing ethical hacking techniques.
• Cybrary: Cybrary is an online learning platform that offers free and paid courses in cybersecurity. It includes hands-on labs and practice tests to help users apply what they have learned. The platform is designed to be accessible to beginners and professionals alike.
• PentesterLab: PentesterLab provides a series of practical exercises and real-world scenarios for learning penetration testing. The platform includes labs on various topics, such as web application security, network security, and reverse engineering.
• Security Training Platforms: Platforms like SANS Cyber Aces and Offensive Security’s Proving Grounds offer specialized training and practice environments for ethical hackers. These platforms provide structured courses, labs, and certification programs to help users develop their skills.

By utilizing these resources, aspiring ethical hackers can gain practical experience, improve their skills, and prepare for real-world cybersecurity challenges.

|| Are Ethical Hackers in Demand?

Yes, ethical hackers are in high demand across various industries and sectors. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, organizations are keen to secure their systems, networks, and data. Ethical hackers play a crucial role in identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in IT infrastructures before malicious hackers can exploit them. Here are some reasons why ethical hackers are in demand:

• Cybersecurity Threat Landscape: The rise in cyber attacks has heightened the demand for skilled professionals who can proactively identify and mitigate security risks.
• Regulatory Requirements: Many industries, such as finance, healthcare, and government, have strict regulatory requirements for data protection and cybersecurity. Ethical hackers help organizations comply with these regulations.
• Preventive Measures: Organizations prefer to prevent cyber attacks rather than deal with the aftermath. Ethical hacking helps in preemptively identifying and fixing vulnerabilities.
• Security Assessments: Regular security assessments and penetration testing are essential for businesses to maintain a robust security posture. Ethical hackers are hired to conduct these assessments and provide actionable insights.
• Skill Shortage: There is a global shortage of cybersecurity professionals, including ethical hackers, which further increases their demand and market value.
• Increasing Adoption of Technology: As more businesses digitize their operations and move to cloud environments, the need for cybersecurity professionals, including ethical hackers, continues to grow.

Overall, ethical hacking offers a rewarding career path with numerous opportunities for growth and development, driven by the critical need for strong cybersecurity measures in today's digital age.

|| Become an Ethical Hacker Today from BIT

To become an ethical hacker, you can start by exploring courses and training programs offered by BIT (Baroda Institute of Technology). Here’s a general pathway you could consider:

• Foundation in IT and Networking: Begin with courses that cover fundamental IT concepts and networking. This could include courses on networking basics, operating systems, and database management.
• Basic Security Knowledge: Take courses or certifications in basic cybersecurity and information security principles. This might involve understanding threats, vulnerabilities, and basic defense mechanisms.
• Programming Skills: Learn programming languages such as Python, which is widely used in cybersecurity for scripting and automation.
• Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing: Enroll in courses specifically focused on ethical hacking and penetration testing. Look for programs that provide hands-on experience with tools and techniques used in ethical hacking.
• Certifications: Consider pursuing certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), which is a globally recognized certification in ethical hacking. Other certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) are also highly regarded.
• Practical Experience: Gain practical experience through internships, projects, or participating in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions. Practical experience is crucial for applying theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
• Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and techniques in cybersecurity and ethical hacking. This field evolves rapidly, so continuous learning is essential.

BIT or any reputable institution can provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills required for ethical hacking. Make sure to choose courses and programs that align with your career goals and provide practical, hands-on experience.