HACKING
DEFINITION
The exploitation of technology such as computers, smartphones, tablets, and networks to harm or corrupt systems, collect user information, steal data and documents, or interfere with data-related activities is known as hacking in the context of cyber security.
A conventional definition of a hacker is a single, renegade coder with extensive knowledge of how to code and alter hardware and software. However, this limited perspective ignores the actual technical aspects of hacking. The sophistication of hackers is rising, and they are employing cunning assault techniques that are meant to be totally invisible to IT staff and cyber security software. Additionally, they have a great deal of expertise in developing attack vectors that deceive users into clicking on harmful links or attachments and divulging sensitive personal information.
HACKING HISTORY
Although the term "hacking" was initially used in the 1970s, it gained popularity over the following ten years. In a 1980 issue of Psychology Today, an article titled "The Hacker Papers" examined the addictive aspect of computer use. Two years later, the concept of hacking was made widely known and presented as a possible national security threat by the publication of the films Tron and WarGames, in which the main protagonists begin breaking into computer networks.
Later that year, a gang of youngsters succeeded in breaking into the computer networks of prominent institutions, including Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Security Pacific Bank, and Los Alamos National Laboratory. The term "hacker" was first used negatively in a Newsweek piece on the incident.
HACKING TYPES
When criminal actors hack websites or systems, they usually do it for four main reasons: (1) financial gain from financial services fraud or credit card theft; (2) corporate espionage; (3) to become well-known or respected for their hacking skills; and (4) state-sponsored hacking that seeks to obtain national intelligence and business data. Additionally, there are politically driven hackers, often known as hacktivists, like Anonymous, LulzSec, and WikiLeaks, who want to increase public awareness by disclosing private information.
A few of the most common types of hackers that carry out these activities involve:
WHITE HAT HACKERS
White hat hackers are the "good guys" who use proactive hacking to try to stop black hat hackers from succeeding. Known as ethical hacking, they use their technical expertise to breach networks in order to evaluate and test the degree of network security.
This makes system flaws more visible before black hat hackers can find and take advantage of them.
White hat hackers are employed by companies to test and identify possible weaknesses in their security measures, yet their methods are comparable to or even the same as those of black hat hackers.
BLACK HAT HACKERS
The "bad guys" of the hacking world are known as black hat hackers. They actively seek out weaknesses in software and computer systems in order to take advantage of them for monetary benefit or more nefarious objectives, like reputational enhancement, corporate espionage, or nation-state hacking.
The acts of these people have the potential to seriously harm computer users as well as the companies they work for. They have the ability to compromise financial and computer systems, steal private information, and change or stop websites and vital networks from operating.
GREY HAT HACKERS
Between the good and the bad, there are grey hat hackers. In contrast to black hat hackers, they try to break rules and regulations without aiming to cause harm or make money. Usually, they act in the interest of the general public.
For instance, they might openly exploit a vulnerability to draw attention to it, in contrast to white hat hackers. This makes malevolent actors aware that the vulnerability exists.
MOST VULNERABLE HACKING DEVICES
Network routers, smart home devices like cameras and smart appliances, internet connected medical devices like insulin pumps, computers with out-of-date software, devices with weak passwords, and any device with insufficient authentication capabilities basically, any internet connected device with lax security measures are among the devices most susceptible to hacking.
Important details regarding susceptible devices:
IoT gadgets:
Because they frequently lack strong security features and have weak default passwords, many "smart" appliances and household gadgets, such as security cameras, smart TVs, and smart speakers, are prime targets for hackers.
Routers:
Unsecured routers, which serve as the entry point to your network, can allow hackers to access all of the devices linked to it.
Medical equipment:
When linked to a network, devices such as insulin pumps and infusion pumps are particularly susceptible to manipulation if not.
Outdated software:
Hackers can frequently take advantage of known vulnerabilities found in computers running out-of-date operating systems and programs.
Weak passwords:
The likelihood of a breach is greatly increased when using straightforward or easy passwords on any device.
PREVENTION OF HACKERS
Individuals and organizations can successfully defend their digital assets against hackers in a variety of ways. There are a number of cyber security best practices that people may do to stop hackers from breaking into their devices and computers.
Keep your passwords strong and complicated: The longer the password, the better, according to UC Santa Barbara Information Technology. Use at least 16 characters whenever you can.
Configure multi factor authentication: Use two-factor or multifactor authentication to add an extra degree of security protection on top of a secure password.
Installing antivirus and anti-malware: Software is crucial for safeguarding your computer system and data. These applications identify and eliminate viruses and malware.
Keep an eye out for dubious emails: Don't open attachments from unfamiliar emails or click on dubious links.
What is hacking?
The act of exploiting a network's or device's security flaws to obtain unauthorized access for malevolent intent is known as hacking.
Here are some FAQs about Hacking
What effects might hacking have on my network or device?
Hackers may utilize your network or device for malevolent or unlawful activities.
How can I prevent hackers from accessing my network or device?
You can update your antivirus program and run a virus and malware scan on your device.
Which kinds of hacking attacks are there?
Brute force attacks, phishing attacks, and password cracking are a few categories of hacking attacks.
How do hackers use the information they get?
The information that hackers get may be used for financial crime, identity theft, or profit-making resale.
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