White hat (computer security)
The term "white hat" in computing slang refers to an ethical hacker, a penetration tester, a cracker or a "security consultant".[1] White-hat hackers are computer security experts, who specialize in penetration testing and in other testing methodologies to ensure the security of an organization's information systems. White-hat hackers are also called "sneakers"[2], red teams, or tiger teams[3].
Such methods identify and exploit known vulnerabilities, and attempt to evade security to gain entry into secured areas.
The United States National Security Agency offers certifications such as the CNSS 4011. Such a certification covers orderly, ethical hacking techniques and team-management. Aggressor teams are called "pink" teams. Defender teams are called "yellow" teams.