Web hacking: understand how it works and learn about the main types of cyberattacks.

According to data released by CNN, in 2022 Brazil was the second country in Latin America with the most cyberattacks..

Therefore, there is an increasing need for companies to have professionals like these. Web hacking experts are able to predict and protect their organizations from experiencing this situation.

In this text, we will explain what web hacking is and how it works, the main types of attacks a company is susceptible to, and how ethical hacking can help organizations protect themselves.

What is web hacking?

Web hacking is a practice that aims to exploit vulnerabilities in web applications to gain unauthorized access, manipulate data, or cause damage to the system.

Malicious hackers, also known as black hats, They seek to compromise security. of websites and systems to steal information, extort money, or cause harm.

Their main focus is sensitive data, such as user credentials, financial information, and intellectual property.

These attacks can be carried out in various ways, such as:

• SQL Injection — Commands entered into input forms to manipulate databases;
• Cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks — malicious scripts injected into web pages;
• Exploiting authentication and authorization vulnerabilities.

What are White Hats?

On the other hand, ethical hackers (or white hatsThey use the same techniques, but with permission from the system owners.

Here, the goal of these professionals is identify and correct faults digital security before malicious hackers can exploit them.

White hats They are hired to perform penetration testing and security audits, helping to improve the resilience of web applications.

Read also: Quantum computing and the need for cybersecurity.

What are the main types of cyberattacks?

By understanding the main hacking techniques used to infiltrate websites and applications, we can understand some of the main cyberattacks and how each one works.

Phishing

The focus of a phishing attack is stealing confidential information, such as passwords and bank details, deceiving the user with fake emails and links.

A classic example is the sending of communications that impersonate financial institutions and induce the recipient to provide credentials.

Ransomware

In a cyberattack, Ransomware, the criminals They infect a system and encrypt its files., requiring a payment, usually in cryptocurrency, to unlock access.

Malware

This term is used to refer to any malicious software designed to harm the system.. It is capable of stealing data, damaging files, or allowing remote control of devices.

DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service Attack)

In a DDoS attack, multiple devices overload a server or network and make it unavailable to legitimate users.

A well-known example was the 2006 attack on Dyn, which took down major websites such as Twitter and Netflix.

Read more: Learn more about digital security, governance, and data management.

How does ethical hacking help protect businesses?

The best way for companies to protect themselves against cyberattacks is to invest in professionals in the field of ethical hacking. 

By identifying weaknesses before criminals do, companies can correct flaws and prevent data breaches, service interruptions, and reputational damage.

Furthermore, these practices help the organization to to act in accordance with safety regulations., like the LGPD, which require the protection of sensitive customer and user information.

In practice, ethical hackers can use various techniques, such as vulnerability scanning, network analysis, simulated attacks, and social engineering to test the resilience of systems.

In this way, they are able to identify flaws, document findings, and recommend corrections.

For example: By simulating an SQL injection attack, the professional can demonstrate how sensitive data can be exposed and suggest preventative measures. to protect the database used by the company.

Read more: What is a Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)? Find out!

Why is a degree in Computer Engineering important for working in cybersecurity?

If you're interested in web hacking, you should know that... Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering It gives you more knowledge to work in this area.

This training provides a solid foundation in programming, networking, operating systems, and computer architecture., allowing professionals to understand deeply How computing software and hardware work and consequently, how to protect them from digital threats.

Throughout the specialization, engineers learn to perform penetration tests, simulate attacks such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, and develop defense solutions.

In addition, they also acquire skills in cryptography, access control and forensic analysis, essential for preventing and responding to security incidents.

So, did you understand what web hacking is, what the main types of cyberattacks are, and how the field of ethical hacking helps a company stay protected and up-to-date?

If you are interested in this area, learn more about... Bachelor's degree course in Computer Engineering at ESEG College, Etapa Group!

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