White hat hacking, also known as ethical hacking, is a computer security[1] field with a rich history and diverse practices. It originated in the United States in the early stages of ordinateur[3] development, with the Air Force conducting an evaluation of the Multics operating system. Ethical hacking involves identifying and exploiting system vulnerabilities to reveal potential security[4] threats. This practice extends beyond software attacks and includes methods such as social engineering and physical infiltration. Despite its controversial nature, some countries, like Belgium and China, have recognized and regulated ethical hacking. White hat hackers are highly skilled professionals, proficient in penetration testing, social engineering, and mobile technologie[2]. Their expertise is essential for companies to enhance their network security. Several notable figures, resources, and incidents associated with ethical hacking highlight its importance in today’s digital world.
A white hat (or a white-hat hacker, a whitehat) is an ethical security hacker. Ethical hacking is a term meant to imply a broader category than just penetration testing. Under the owner's consent, white-hat hackers aim to identify any vulnerabilities or security issues the current system has. The white hat is contrasted with the black hat, a malicious hacker; this definitional dichotomy comes from Western films, where heroic and antagonistic cowboys might traditionally wear a white and a black hat, respectively. There is a third kind of hacker known as a grey hat who hacks with good intentions but at times without permission.
White-hat hackers may also work in teams called "sneakers and/or hacker clubs", red teamsou tiger teams.