The term ______ refers to an individual, who breaks into computer systems without authorization, deliberately defaces Web sites for fraudulent purpose.

Question

UnlockIAS · Accepted Answer

Correct — C, cracker. In computer-security vocabulary a 'cracker' is someone who breaks into systems without permission, with malicious or criminal intent — stealing data, defacing websites, or committing fraud. The word was coined precisely to separate this destructive intruder from the neutral term 'hacker'. The stem's description — unauthorized break-in, deliberate defacement, fraudulent purpose — is the textbook definition of a cracker.

Why the other options are wrong — (a) A white-hat is an ethical hacker who tests systems with permission to find and fix weaknesses — the opposite of someone breaking in for fraud.  (b) In its original, strict sense a 'hacker' is a skilled programmer/enthusiast, not necessarily a criminal; the term for the malicious intruder described here is the more specific 'cracker'.  (d) Not a security term at all — a stacker is a material-handling/warehouse machine; it has nothing to do with breaking into computers.

Concept: Security jargon separates intent. A 'hacker', strictly, is a skilled computer expert; the malicious version who breaks in illegally is a 'cracker' (or 'black hat'). Ethical professionals who test systems with permission are 'white hats'; those who operate in a grey area are 'grey hats'. So the same skill can be used to protect or to attack — the label depends on authorization and intent.

State PCS 2018 Q80 — Science & Technology PYQ with Answer

State PCS 2018 Q80 — Science & Technology PYQ with Answer