Ethical hackers perform security vulnerability assessments and penetration tests in accordance with industry-accepted methods and protocols. They analyse systems for potential vulnerabilities that may result from improper system configuration, hardware or software flaws, or operational weaknesses.

Tasks

In such cases tasks would include -
(a) Developing plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs;
(b) Training users and promoting security awareness to ensure system security and to improve server and network efficiency;
(c) Conferring with users to discuss issues such as computer data access needs, security violations, and programming changes;
(d) Monitoring current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems;
(e) Modifying computer security files to incorporate new software, correct errors or change individual access status;
(f) Monitoring use of data files and regulate access to safeguard information in computer files;
(g) Performing risk assessments and executing tests of data processing system to ensure functioning of data processing activities and security measures;
(h) Encrypting data transmissions and erecting firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.