Which type of hacker is commonly referred to as a "white hat" hacker?

A "white hat" hacker is commonly referred to as an ethical hacker. This designation is used for individuals who use their hacking skills for protective and educational purposes. They are typically employed by organizations to identify and rectify security vulnerabilities within systems, thereby actively contributing to the improvement of security measures. White hat hackers operate within legal boundaries and often help strengthen the defenses against malicious attacks by mimicking the tactics that criminals might use, but with the goal of securing systems rather than exploiting them.

Understanding the specific role of a white hat hacker is essential in the context of cybersecurity. They play a crucial role in preventing data breaches and enhancing overall system security, which sets them apart from malicious hackers who aim to exploit vulnerabilities for personal gain.

In contrast, other types of hackers mentioned in different options carry connotations of illegal activity or ambiguous motivation. For example, a "cracker" is typically known for breaking into systems with mischievous or harmful intent, while a "malicious hacker" refers outright to individuals whose activities are focused on causing harm or theft. A "grey hat" hacker operates in a more ambiguous area: while they may discover vulnerabilities and may not act with ill intent, their methods can sometimes skirt ethical or legal lines, unlike the clear ethical stance of the