What Is Ethical Hacking? A Complete Guide

• Pawan
• March 7, 2025
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What Is Ethical Hacking? A Complete Guide

Do you want to learn ethical hacking skills under the guidance of professionals? Then this article will help you with that. In this article, we have explained “What Is Ethical Hacking?” Moreover, several organizations are demanding a huge number of hacking professionals to fight against online threats threatening confidential data. What are we waiting for? Let’s get straight to the topic!

What Is Ethical Hacking?

The deliberate probing of computer systems, networks, or applications to find security flaws before malevolent hackers can take advantage of them is known as ethical hacking. With the system owner’s consent, cybersecurity experts—also referred to as ethical hackers or white-hat hackers- perform it.

By identifying and addressing vulnerabilities, security is intended to be improved. Let’s move forward and talk about “What Is Ethical Hacking?” in detail!

Types of Ethical Hacking Techniques

The following are types of ethical hacking techniques:

1. Penetration Testing: The purpose of this simulated attack is to find weaknesses in a system. It entails attempting to get around security measures and access private information.
2. Vulnerability Scanning: This automated procedure finds a system’s known vulnerabilities. It creates reports and scans for vulnerabilities using specialized tools.
3. Social Engineering: This tactic coerces people into granting access to a system or divulging private information. It is predicated on taking advantage of human psychology and trust.
4. Phishing: This kind of social engineering attack deceives people into disclosing personal information, like credit card numbers or passwords, by using emails or websites.
5. Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks: These attacks overload a system with traffic, preventing authorized users from accessing it. They can be used to extort money or interfere with services.
6. SQL Injection: This method inserts malicious code into databases by taking advantage of flaws in web applications. It can be used to take over a system or steal data.
7. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS): This method involves inserting malicious code into websites. Users may be redirected to malicious websites or have their data stolen.
8. Buffer Overflow: This technique runs malicious code by taking advantage of software flaws. It can be used to steal data or take over a system.
9. Rootkit: This kind of malware conceals itself on a system along with other harmful programs. It can be used to steal data or to keep access to a system.
10. Keylogger: This kind of malware keeps track of keystrokes. Passwords and other private data can be stolen using it.

Why is Ethical Hacking Important for Cybersecurity?

S.No.	Benefits	How?
1.	Proactive Vulnerability Identification	Finding vulnerabilities before attackers do is made easier with ethical hacking.
2.	Strengthened Security Posture	Ethical hacking increases the resilience of systems by locating and repairing vulnerabilities.
3.	Data Breach Prevention	The likelihood of expensive and destructive data breaches is decreased by ethical hacking.
4.	Protection of Sensitive Information	It aids in protecting private information such as financial records and customer information.
5.	Compliance with Regulations	Legal requirements and security standards are met with the help of ethical hacking.
6.	Enhanced Trust and Reputation	Gaining the trust of stakeholders and customers requires a dedication to security.
7.	Improved Incident Response	Organizations are better equipped to manage security incidents when ethical hacking is used.
8.	Cost-Effectiveness	It is less expensive to prevent breaches using ethical hacking than to fix them after they have occurred.

Key Principles of Ethical Hacking

The following are the key principles of ethical hacking:

• Legality: Any ethical hacking activity must always abide by the rules and laws that apply.
• Authorization: Before beginning any testing, the system owner must give their express consent.
• Scope Definition: The testing’s parameters need to be specified and decided upon in advance.
• Confidentiality: Every piece of information found needs to be kept private and not shared with outside parties.
• Reporting: The client must be informed of vulnerabilities and findings in a clear and thorough manner.
• No Harm: The target systems or data cannot be purposefully harmed by ethical hackers.
• Professionalism: It is important for ethical hackers to act honorably and with professionalism at all times.
• Transparency: The client should be able to see the testing procedures and methods used.
• Data Protection: During their testing, ethical hackers must respect and safeguard the privacy of any data they come across.

The Difference Between Ethical Hacking and Malicious Hacking

S.No.	Factors	Topics	Why?
1.	Intent	Ethical Hacking	Ethical hackers seek to enhance security by identifying weaknesses with authorization.
		Malicious Hacking	Malicious hackers aim to take advantage of weaknesses to harm others or obtain personal benefit.
2.	Authorization	Ethical Hacking	Ethical hackers work with the system owner’s express consent.
		Malicious Hacking	Because malicious hackers operate without authorization, their actions are prohibited.
3.	Scope	Ethical Hacking	The client and ethical hacking have a well-defined scope that restricts the testing to particular systems and methods.
		Malicious Hacking	Malicious hackers can target any system they want because they have no restrictions.
4.	Transparency	Ethical Hacking	Ethical hackers work openly, communicating their discoveries to the client to address vulnerabilities.
		Malicious Hacking	Malicious hackers work in secret, concealing their actions and taking advantage of weaknesses for personal gain.
5.	Outcome	Ethical Hacking	Through vulnerability remediation, ethical hacking improves security.
		Malicious Hacking	Malicious hacking causes system disruption, data theft, security lapses, and other negative outcomes.

Legal and Ethical Considerations in Hacking

Following are some of the legal and ethical considerations in hacking:

1. Authorization: Always get the system owner’s express consent before beginning any hacking activity.
2. Scope Definition: Together with the client, clearly outline the parameters of the testing, including the systems and methods that are permitted.
3. Legality: Make sure that every action complies with all applicable laws and rules, including those about privacy and data protection.
4. Confidentiality: Any sensitive information that is discovered during testing should be kept private and not shared with outside parties.
5. Data Protection: Respect people’s and organizations’ privacy by not accessing or sharing personal information without consent.
6. No Harm: During testing, don’t purposefully harm any systems or data.
7. Reporting: Give the client a thorough and understandable report of the findings, including the vulnerabilities found and remediation suggestions.
8. Professionalism: Act with honesty, integrity, and openness in everything you do.
9. Transparency: Communicate openly with the client regarding the testing procedures, methods, and possible hazards.
10. Compliance: Respect ethical hacking guidelines and industry best practices.

Common Tools Used by Ethical Hackers

S.No.	Tools	What?
1.	Nmap (Network Mapper)	An effective tool for detecting services and scanning networks.
2.	Wireshark	Network traffic is captured and examined using a network protocol analyzer.
3.	Metasploit Framework	A framework for penetration testing that includes modules, payloads, and exploits.
4.	Burp Suite	A platform for conducting web application security testing.
5.	OWASP ZAP (Zed Attack Proxy)	A web application security scanner that is open-source and free.
6.	John the Ripper	A quick way to crack passwords.
7.	Aircrack-ng	A collection of instruments for evaluating the security of Wi-Fi networks.
8.	Nessus	A scanner for vulnerabilities that finds flaws in systems.
9.	SQLMap	An open-source penetration testing tool that makes it easier to find and take advantage of SQL injection vulnerabilities.
10.	Hydra	A quick network logon cracker that works with a wide range of services.

Ethical Hacking in Different Industries

Following are some industries that need ethical hacking:

1. Financial Services: Ethical hacking shields systems and private financial information from online attacks.
2. Healthcare: It guarantees the integrity of vital healthcare systems and protects patient data.
3. Government: By finding weaknesses in government infrastructure, ethical hacking improves national security.
4. Technology: It aids tech firms in protecting their goods and services from online threats.
5. E-commerce: Ethical hacking guarantees safe online transactions and safeguards consumer data.
6. Telecommunications: It guards against service interruptions and protects communication networks.
7. Education: Ethical hacking secures the networks of educational institutions and safeguards student data.
8. Manufacturing: It guards against production interruptions and protects industrial control systems.
9. Transportation: Transportation systems are safe and secure thanks to ethical hacking.
10. Energy: It guards against possible disruptions and cyberattacks on vital energy infrastructure.

Future Trends in Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity

S.No.	Trends	What?
1.	AI and Machine Learning	Increased use of AI and ML for both offensive and defensive security task automation, threat detection, and vulnerability analysis.
2.	Cloud Security	As more businesses move to cloud platforms, there is an increasing emphasis on protecting cloud environments.
3.	IoT Security	Tackling the particular security issues brought on by the growth of Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets.
4.	Zero Trust Security	Putting into practice Zero Trust models, which demand verification for each access attempt and make no assumptions about implicit trust.
5.	Quantum Computing	Establishing quantum-resistant security measures and getting ready for the possible effects of quantum computing on cryptography.
6.	Supply Chain Security	Prioritize supply chain security since third-party vendor vulnerabilities pose a serious risk.
7.	DevSecOps	Incorporating security procedures into the DevSecOps software development lifecycle to create secure apps from the ground up.
8.	Cybersecurity Mesh	A method of distributed security that prioritizes protecting individual access points over protecting a centralized perimeter.
9.	Automation	Increased automation of security-related tasks, such as incident response, vulnerability scanning, and penetration testing.
10.	Skills Gap and Training	Developing the next generation of ethical hackers by addressing the widening skills gap in cybersecurity through education and training initiatives.

How to Become an Ethical Hacker: Skills & Certifications?

Now that you have a grasp of “What Is Ethical Hacking?” you might want to get a deeper understanding of ethical hacking. For that, you can get in contact with Craw Security, offering a dedicated training & certification program, “Ethical Hacking Course in Singapore with AI,” for IT Aspirants.

During the training sessions, students will be able to confront several practicals involving hacking tools under the guidance of professionals. With that, students will be facilitated with remote learning via the online sessions.

After the completion of the Ethical Hacking Course in Singapore with AI offered by Craw Security, students will get a certificate validating their honed knowledge & skills during the sessions. What are you waiting for? Contact, Now!

Frequently Asked Questions

About What Is Ethical Hacking?

1. What is ethical hacking, in simple words?

A friendly security specialist attempting to gain access to a system with authorization to identify its flaws before actual hackers do is known as ethical hacking.

2. What is an ethical hacker’s salary?

In Singapore, an ethical hacker can anticipate making between SGD 100,000 and SGD 160,000 annually.

3. Is ethical hacking illegal?

No, ethical hacking is not against the law as long as the system owner gives their express consent, it is a valid and important cybersecurity technique.

4. What is an example of ethical hacking?

A penetration test, in which a security expert attempts to identify weaknesses in a company’s network with consent to assist them in strengthening their defenses, is an example of ethical hacking.

5. What is the highest-paying job in India?

Although pay varies, the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), who is in charge of an organization’s whole cybersecurity strategy, is typically regarded as the ethical hacking position with the highest salary in India.

6. Which country pays the highest salary to ethical hackers?

Professionals in cybersecurity and ethical hacking typically earn the highest salaries in the US.

7. Is hacking good or bad?

Hacking is a skill in and of itself; whether it is “good” or “bad” depends solely on the hacker’s intentions.

8. What is white hacking?

“White hacking” is another term for ethical hacking, which is the practice of security experts using their expertise to identify and address vulnerabilities with authorization.

9. Who is eligible for ethical hacking?

Ethical hacking positions are open to people who have a solid grasp of computer systems, networking, and security concepts, as well as the required credentials and moral character.

10. Can a 12th pass become an ethical hacker?

If you are a student who just passed the 12th standard and want to become an ethical hacker, you can join the Ethical Hacking Course in Singapore with AI offered by Craw Security.

11. What do hackers study?

Both malevolent and ethical hackers research programming, networking, computer systems, security flaws, and different attack methods.

12. What is the syllabus of hacking?

Networking, operating systems, programming, security concepts, penetration testing techniques, vulnerability assessment, and ethical considerations are usually covered in a hacking syllabus (for ethical hacking).