Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH v11) — Question 20

A hacker is an intelligent individual with excellent computer skills and the ability to explore a computer's software and hardware without the owner's permission.
Their intention can either be to simply gain knowledge or to illegally make changes.
Which of the following class of hacker refers to an individual who works both offensively and defensively at various times?

Answer options

• A. White Hat
• B. Suicide Hacker
• C. Gray Hat
• D. Black Hat

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is C, Gray Hat, as these hackers may engage in both legal and illegal activities, often to improve security while sometimes violating laws. A White Hat (A) focuses on ethical hacking to help organizations, while Black Hats (D) engage in illegal activities. Suicide Hackers (B) typically act with a self-destructive agenda, which doesn't align with the dual role described.