Individuals with technical skill to perpetrate cyber attacks are known as what?
Question Select one:
a. Career Criminals
b. Hackers c.
Crackers
d. Amateurs
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b. Hackers.
Explanation:
Hackers are individuals with technical skills who use their knowledge of computer systems, networks, and security protocols to access or manipulate systems, often without authorization. The term “hacker” is commonly used to describe those who possess advanced technical abilities and exploit systems for a variety of reasons, ranging from curiosity to malicious intent. Hackers may specialize in areas such as system vulnerabilities, coding, or network security.
While the term “hacker” can have neutral or even positive connotations, especially when referring to those who work ethically to strengthen systems (often called “white-hat hackers”), it is often associated with illegal activities when used in a negative context. These individuals can gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, disrupt services, or even steal information for personal or financial gain.
The term “cracker” is also used to describe a person who breaks into systems with the intent of malicious activities, such as stealing information or causing harm. However, “hacker” is a more widely recognized term in popular culture and is often used interchangeably with “cracker” in informal discussions, even though the two terms technically have different implications.
“Career criminals” refers to individuals whose criminal activities are more broad and are not necessarily linked to cyberattacks. “Amateurs,” on the other hand, typically refers to individuals who may lack the technical skill and expertise of hackers and crackers, making them less likely to carry out sophisticated cyberattacks.
In summary, hackers are the individuals most commonly associated with technical skills in the context of cyberattacks, and the term encompasses a wide range of motivations and actions.