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Types of Hackers

Buzzle Staff
Hackers attack the loopholes in computer networks and break into them. Ethical hackers, however, do this for seeking vulnerabilities in the networks, on behalf of its owners.
Computer hacking is regarded as an art of breaking into computer systems or networks. Ethical hackers do this with an intent to analyze, study, and protect networks, however other hackers hack for their personal gains.
A hacker is a person with a wide array of expertise in different computer subjects and terminologies. He is an uncanny person who is used to thinking out-of-the-box. In today's digital age we can find three main breeds: 1) White Hat Hackers, 2) Black Hat Hackers, and 3) Grey Hat Hackers.

White Hat Hackers

These are the ones who are termed as ethical hackers. These are the ones who follow morality, ethics, abide by the laws and still hack! It seems weird, but yes, that's how it is! An ethical hacker is permitted to hack computer systems or networks. Now the question arises - why?
An obvious answer to this is that unless there is an understanding of what is insecure in our system or network, we won't be able to protect it. An ethical hacker provides with vulnerabilities in the system or network, through use of various hacking techniques. These vulnerabilities are then generally corrected through corrective and preventive measures.

Black Hat Hackers

Black hat hackers, also called Crackers, are people who break into computer systems and networks without any prior permission. They are the people who hack for various reasons such as robbery, revenge, showing-off their skills, causing damage, or just any random reason. These people are regarded as the new criminals of this digital age.
Several federal laws have been enacted to curb black hat hacking. The IT Act 2000, which is followed in a number of countries, has listed out several ways to deal and punish these criminals.
A lot of network security agencies have been formed after many hacking cases were reported. These agencies work in designing security policies and measures to protect organizations and individuals alike, from getting hacked.

Grey Hat Hackers

They have their own reasons to hack computer systems and networks. They are like Robin Hood(s) of today's age. They can be seen as a mix of white hat and black hat hackers. Grey hat hackers can do good for some people and can even cause damage, depending on their approach.
For example, they typically hack sites which they feel are socially bad, like adult and gambling sites. Some, hack systems and networks to find out the vulnerabilities and loop holes, and report them to the respective organizations or owners. They do this for gaining popularity or some reasons and visions, best known to them.