Even as technology advances, cybercriminals’ arsenals grow more sophisticated. Ethical hackers play an increasingly important role in combating these new dangers.
Organizations must devise a strategy to prevent malware assaults as businesses become more aware of the threat. Some companies have enlisted the help of ethical hackers to safeguard their networks and data systems. Within six months of being hacked, as many as 60 percent of small and medium-sized enterprises go out of business. The demand for ethical hackers in companies that rely on technology for their operations, finances, and private record storage directly results from this.
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Before discussing the topic, let’s know what ethical hacking is?
Let’s know what ethical hacking is?
Ethical hacking aims to test and safeguard the security and information systems of the organization that an ethical hacker is working for. Ethical hackers or white hat hackers are also known as “penetration testers” since they test the system to discover any vulnerabilities that it could exploit. It ensures that the organization’s systems are up to date and safe so that unlawful hackers do not use its flaws.
An ethical hacker’s job description is as follows:
No harm is intended when an ethical hacker gains access to a computer network. Typically, companies use them to assess their overall security by breaking into computers and networks. Their goal is to better organizations, not exploit or steal from them. Therefore they put their skills to good use by sharing what they know.
Organizations can learn about their security flaws by enlisting the help of ethical hackers. A new set of eyes might help companies spot weaknesses that their team may have overlooked. Organizations might benefit from the aid of ethical hackers, who can help them uncover hidden weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
Before becoming an ethical hacker, what are the most important things to know?
There is a vast range of tactics and abilities that ethical hackers must master to get into a system.
The importance of ethics and morals in ethical hacking cannot be overstated. Ethical hackers should know the following:
- Malware
To be an ethical hacker, one must be familiar with a wide variety of malware, how it can be employed, and the most recent types of malware to emerge. Once they’ve gotten access, hackers will use malware to corrupt and steal data. An ethical hacker can use malware tools written by others, or the hacker can write their own.
- NICE 2.0 Framework
The NIST Cybersecurity Workforce Framework defines cybersecurity positions within an organization and detects gaps in knowledge or responsibility. This document serves as an excellent guide for an employee’s role in an organization. It also shows who is responsible for cybersecurity when a company’s security is vulnerable.
- IoT Device Security
To access an enterprise’s network, hackers commonly target IoT devices because they are often vulnerable, making them an ideal target. When it comes to mobile devices, WiFi is the most common method of connecting to an organization’s network, and practically everyone owns a smartphone or tablet. Hackers need to be conversant with technologies like Wireshark, BinWalk, and SAINT to acquire access to information.
- Cloud
It has become a significant part of many firms’ workflows, including document collaboration, application deployment, and data backup. Hackers might use the cloud to perform surveillance and develop an attack platform. Because enterprises believe that the cloud provider is responsible for security, open-source cloud platforms are particularly vulnerable.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Cybercriminals use AI and machine learning techniques to crack passwords in bulk, scan for security holes and decrypt encrypted data. They may also use Artificial Intelligence to prevent phishing attacks, run security diagnostics, and filter out harmful URLs and websites.
- Analytical thinking
Having creative and analytical skills is essential for hacking. To be an ethical hacker, one must reverse engineer security frameworks and devise novel methods of breaking into a network. Think beyond the box.
- SQL
It is the language used by data centers to communicate with one another. A typical IT attack known as SQL injection relies heavily on this technique. There are a variety of SQL attacks, including in-band and out of the band and blind SQL attacks, that can swiftly corrupt a database and its data.
- Cryptography
Encryption and decryption are essential skills for ethical hackers since many firms use encryption to protect sensitive data and network traffic. A hacker’s toolkit should include techniques like brute-force attacks, keyword searches for algorithms, and ciphertext analysis.
In addition, ransomware relies on cryptography to hold its victims’ files hostage and reveal holes in a system’s email and malware filtering software, making cryptography a crucial ransomware component.
- Computer forensics
Computer forensics is the practice of recovering and analyzing digital evidence that has been deposited in computer systems. Afterward, lawyers use this information in court to develop a strong defense. Government agencies and legal firms hire ethical hackers to access seized devices and look for evidence. In addition, they can use the tools utilized in criminal forensics in a security assessment.
- Ethical hacking software and tools
Hackers utilize various tools to swiftly and efficiently scan, analyze, and break into applications and systems. Password crackers like John the Ripper and Metasploit are examples of IP scanners that can be used with other security tools. It’s common for ethical hackers to have a “toolkit” of apps they’ve used many times before. As a result, they are well-versed in a wide range of unusual or challenging tools.
Final takeaway
As the need for ethical hackers grows, more and more training programs and certifications are offered to those interested. Training programs and boot camps are the best way to learn ethical hacking in a real-world setting and improve your skills.
You are getting certified as an ethical hacker increases your credibility and marketability. Many of the world’s largest technology companies prefer to hire candidates who have earned valuable certifications from reputable institutions.