One who gains unauthorized access, destroys vital data, denies legitimate user's service or causes problems for their targets is called

Question

UnlockIAS · Accepted Answer

Correct — B, Cracker. In security terminology a cracker is a malicious intruder (a 'black-hat') who breaks into systems without authorization to steal or destroy data, deny legitimate users their service (a denial-of-service attack), or otherwise harm the target. The defining feature is the criminal, damaging intent — which exactly matches the description in the question.

Why the other options are wrong — (a) The opposite — an ethical hacker who tests systems with permission to find and fix vulnerabilities, not to cause harm.  (c) A legitimate professional who writes software; the role carries no intent to break in or destroy data.  (d) An authorized custodian who manages and safeguards databases — a trusted role, not an intruder.

Concept: Security literature distinguishes the intent behind accessing a system. A 'cracker' (or black-hat hacker) breaks in with malicious purpose; a 'white-hat' hacker probes systems ethically and with permission. Purists reserve 'hacker' for a skilled enthusiast and use 'cracker' specifically for the criminal, even though popular usage blurs the two.

State PCS 2019 Q22 — Science & Technology PYQ with Answer

State PCS 2019 Q22 — Science & Technology PYQ with Answer