Which term describes an ethical hacker who uses hacking skills for defensive purposes?

Which term describes an ethical hacker who uses hacking skills for defensive purposes?

• A. White hat
• B. Black hat
• C. Gray hat
• D. Blue hat

Answer: (A)

White hat hackers are ethical security professionals who use hacking skills to defend systems. They perform authorized testing—penetration testing and vulnerability assessments—with the goal of finding weaknesses so they can be fixed before malicious actors can exploit them. They operate under a defined scope and rules of engagement, ensuring their activities stay legal and harm-free. This careful, defender-focused use of hacking skills is what distinguishes them from others who might break into systems for malicious reasons or without proper authorization.

White hat hackers are ethical security professionals who use hacking skills to defend systems. They perform authorized testing—penetration testing and vulnerability assessments—with the goal of finding weaknesses so they can be fixed before malicious actors can exploit them. They operate under a defined scope and rules of engagement, ensuring their activities stay legal and harm-free. This careful, defender-focused use of hacking skills is what distinguishes them from others who might break into systems for malicious reasons or without proper authorization.