Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Cybersecurity Practice Test

Which term describes a hacker who performs ethical hacking with permission?

1. Black Hat

2. White Hat

3. Gray Hat

4. Script Kiddie

The correct answer is: White Hat

The term that describes a hacker who performs ethical hacking with permission is "White Hat." White Hat hackers, also known as ethical hackers, are cybersecurity professionals who are authorized to probe systems for weaknesses and vulnerabilities. They play a crucial role in enhancing the security posture of organizations by identifying and fixing potential threats before malicious actors can exploit them. White Hat hackers typically operate under a contract or agreement that outlines the scope of their activities and ensures that they have permission to access the systems they are testing. This ethical approach distinguishes them from other types of hackers who engage in unauthorized access or exploit systems for personal gain. In contrast, the other categories of hackers involve different intentions and activities. Black Hat hackers conduct illegal activities, infiltrating systems without permission to steal data or cause harm. Gray Hat hackers may blend the lines between ethical and unethical activities, sometimes finding vulnerabilities without permission but often disclosing them afterward. Script Kiddies refer to individuals who use existing tools and scripts to launch attacks, usually without a deep understanding of the underlying technology.