The main entity in this text is Black Hat Hackers. These are individuals who infiltrate computer[2] systems with harmful intent, often distributing malware[3] to steal various types of information. They may work independently or as part of criminal organizations, and their actions can result in significant financial or personal damage. Famous instances of black hat hacking include Kevin Mitnick’s 1979 hack of The Ark and the devastating WannaCry ransomware attack. These hackers are contrasted with ethical, or white hat hackers, who work to uncover system vulnerabilities in order to enhance security[4], and grey hat[1] hackers, who may test the boundaries of legality or ethics but do not have harmful intentions. Black hat hackers play a significant role in cybercrime and pose a major threat to individuals, businesses, and governments.
A black hat (black hat hacker or blackhat) is a computer hacker who violates laws or ethical standards for nefarious purposes, such as cybercrime, cyberwarfare, or malice. These acts can range from piracy to identify theft. A Black hat is often referred to as a "cracker".
The term originates from 1950s westerns, with "bad guys" (criminals) typically depicted as having worn black hats and "good guys" (heroes) wearing white ones. In the same way, black hat hacking is contrasted with the more ethical white hat approach to hacking. Additionally, there exists a third category, called grey hat hacking, characterized by individuals who hack, usually with good intentions but by illegal means.