Hackers for Good? Ethical Hacking

When we hear the term “hackers”, we usually picture an anonymous figure in a dark hood typing away at a screen and stealing all of our information. Although there are a bunch of dangerous hackers out there, along with malicious viruses and scams to watch out for, hacking can definitely be used for good. This is called ethical hacking.

Ethical hacking is a field of software programming and cybersecurity in which trained individuals are hired by companies, businesses, and organizations to legally break into their systems. Organizations are then able to find vulnerabilities in their platforms and computer assets, allowing them to improve their security systems. This can help combat the probability that a real cybercriminal attempts to hack into their software. Companies are able to secure their networks and protect their data.

As technology has become an increasingly powerful tool, and cyberattacks have become more common, the demand for ethical hackers has increased. Ethical hackers learn about IT security through courses, certifications, and even self-learning. But beyond actual programming skills, ethical hackers have to be analytical. They also have to sometimes employ social engineering, which is basically manipulating users to reveal personal information, into their work. Although it all may sound scary, ethical hacking is a useful tool in strengthening security systems.

So how does one become an ethical hacker? Those who have an interest in pursuing this exciting and challenging IT field have to learn skills to hack into web applications, wireless networks, web servers, and more. They must analyze the information they’re provided, or sometimes not provided, in order to find pathways into computer systems. Hackers also have to research or create their own software tools to actually do the job. Basically, they have to put themselves in the shoes of a cyberattacker.

There are multiple courses available online to gain certification as an ethical hacker (such as EC-Council’s Certificate Ethical Hacker Course), though they’re not always required to be hired by a company.

All in all, technology has become imbedded into our everyday lives, and with that comes the risk of clicking the wrong link and sending a virus into your computer, or having a hacker gain access to all your data through a web server. But the good news is, we have individuals with no ill-intent that use their hacking skills for good!