Ethical hacking is a method used to test the security of software and systems against cyber attacks.

What is Ethical Hacking?

Cyber attackers, also known as hackers, use various attack methods to infiltrate computer systems and cause harm. Ethical hacking, on the other hand, is the practice of testing network and system security for security purposes by using the same methods as malicious hackers.

Although the measures taken by cybersecurity experts are considered sufficient, cyber attackers shape their attacks every day with different techniques and methods. Therefore, testing systems and networks by ethical hacking, which involves experts who think and behave like a cyber attacker, is a logical step. The individuals performing this work are referred to as white hat hackers. Unlike malicious, black hat hackers, they aim not to harm or gain benefit but to help organizations take measures by identifying security vulnerabilities.

Principles of Ethical Hacking

White hat hackers, who work on identifying security vulnerabilities, adhere to certain rules during their work. These rules, which fundamentally include behavior that could damage the system, consist of items such as having the permission of the target organization and not engaging in harmful behavior. These principles distinguish white hat hackers from other types of hackers, such as black and gray hats. Looking at the details:

• Ethical hacking activity is carried out with the knowledge of the target organizations.
• Actions are taken within the constraints defined on the operating system. For example, organizations can exclude systems they deem highly important or are confident in their security from this study.
• White hat hackers must transparently report the security vulnerabilities they detect. They cannot withhold discovered security vulnerabilities for their own benefit.
• Identified security vulnerabilities and obtained data must be kept completely confidential. Data obtained during the ethical hacking activity cannot be shared with others.

Stages of Ethical Hacking

During the ethical hacking process, white hat hackers follow certain stages. These stages are:

Research

As the first step of the ethical hacking process, white hat security experts gather as much data as possible about their targets. This data collection ranges from information about employees in the business to information about business processes. Hacking progresses through various methods including social engineering, so every piece of information that could provide an advantage is needed.

Scanning

The second stage is scanning. This stage involves efforts to identify weak points in the target system and network. It encompasses scanning to obtain valuable data such as IP addresses and credentials and to use network vulnerabilities in line with their interests.

Access

As the name suggests, the access stage involves using the data obtained and the security vulnerabilities found to gain access to the network. An infiltration attempt is made by overcoming the target's security defenses. The extent to which access can be achieved is tested using ransomware, spyware, or other various malicious software.

Cleanup and Reporting

In the final stage, white hat hackers clean all data that would indicate their access and restore the network and system they managed to infiltrate to its original state. Afterwards, they compile a report of the security vulnerabilities they identified and the recommendations they offer for immediate remediation and present it to the organization they work for.