Who is really behind the screen? Rethinking the hacker concept

When it comes to cybersecurity, many imagine black hoodies and flickering monitors. But the reality is much more complex — under the term “hacker” are specialists with radically different goals and approaches.

From romance to reality: how perceptions have changed

Once, hackers were heroes of the digital world — innovative programmers pushing the boundaries of technology. They solved impossible problems, created breakthrough solutions, and improved systems from within. However, the media rewrote this story. As cybercrime grew, the image of the specialist transformed into that of an attacker. Today, for most, a “hacker” is primarily someone who searches for vulnerabilities for personal gain.

Three paths in digital security

But in reality, it's not all black and white. Experts in hacking are divided into three poles:

Ethical defenders (white hats) — professionals who work legally and openly. They help companies and organizations identify weaknesses in their defenses, strengthening security systems before malicious actors can exploit them. Their mission is clear: to protect data and confidentiality.

Criminal actors (black hats) pursue completely opposite goals. They operate illegally, using technical knowledge to steal information, spread malware, and disrupt services. Their motives are simple — financial gain or causing harm. They pose a real threat to individuals, corporations, and even governments.

Ambivalent seekers (gray hats) operate on the border — they penetrate systems without permission but not always with malicious intent. Often, they identify security issues to later offer remediation services. Their methods are controversial, motives ambiguous, but sometimes they inadvertently contribute to improving cybersecurity.

Why this matters right now

Every year, cyber threats become more sophisticated, and stakes are higher. While malicious cyber specialists cause billions in damages, honest professionals build defenses. This dynamic shapes the future of digital security — and each of us is either protecting or vulnerable within this system.

Understanding how this ecosystem works is essential for everyone interacting with technology. Because in the world of cybersecurity, there are no neutral positions — every hacker makes a choice between protection and destruction.