In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, companies must stay one step ahead of malicious hackers. One of the best ways to do that is to beat them at their own game. As cybercriminals develop new and more sophisticated tactics to breach security, organizations need to be equally innovative in their approach to protecting sensitive data. Businesses can no longer rely on outdated security measures or reactive strategies. Instead, they can turn the tables on cybercriminals by implementing ethical hacking into their cybersecurity strategy.
What is Ethical Hacking?
When a person engages in ethical hacking, they are still finding weaknesses or security holes in systems. However, these hackers have a positive motive compared to their criminal counterparts. Unlike malicious hackers (often called “black hat” hackers), ethical hackers (also known as “white hat” hackers) get permission from the system owner to find and fix problems before bad hackers can exploit them. With control in place, ethical hacking is beneficial for companies to implement into their cybersecurity plan.
Types of Ethical Hacking
With the different methods a cybercriminal can use to compromise company systems, there are also different types of ethical hacking used to counteract them. Here are three types to help your cybersecurity team get started:
- Network Hacking: Ethical hackers test the company’s network by trying to infiltrate the system through routers, firewalls, and servers. If a black hat hacker were to sneak into the network, they would then have access to data that is sensitive to the company, stakeholders, and customers. Companies can include ethical network hacking into their cybersecurity plan to ensure those gaps in their network security are closed.
- Web Application Hacking: A company’s online presence is most visible through its websites, making them popular targets for hackers, especially if the website is for e-commerce or banking businesses. Vulnerabilities such as poor coding or broken authentications are a surefire way of allowing cybercriminals into web applications, potentially exposing private customer information. With an ethical hacker on the team, companies can encourage ethical web application hacking to catch weaknesses early and strengthen their defenses against cyber threats.
- Wireless Network Hacking: Wi-Fi networks are common among businesses, but their popularity makes them a prime target for cybercriminals. If a malicious hacker were to break through the wireless network, they could not only steal sensitive data but also install malware that spreads to any device connected. Ethical wireless network hackers can check for gaps in security such as weak passwords, outdated encryption methods, or unprotected access points to fortify Wi-Fi networks against cyberattacks.
Stay Ahead of Cybercriminals
Ethical hacking is a powerful tool for companies looking to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses. By focusing on key areas like network, web application, and wireless network security, ethical hackers can uncover and address potential vulnerabilities before they become major problems. Incorporating ethical hacking into your security strategy not only protects valuable data but also builds trust with customers and stakeholders. As cyber threats continue to rise, ethical hackers serve as the first line of defense in ensuring your systems remain secure and resilient.
