Ethical Hacking Phases — Cybersecurity Mind Map

6. Ethical Hacking Phases

Ethical hacking follows a disciplined methodology to identify vulnerabilities before attackers do. This mind map covers each phase with tools and techniques used.

Topics Covered

• Phase 1: Footprinting — OSINT, passive and active recon
• Phase 2: Scanning — Nmap port scan, service enumeration
• Phase 3: Gaining access — exploitation, password attacks
• Phase 4: Maintaining access — persistence, backdoors
• Phase 5: Clearing tracks — log deletion, artefact removal
• Black/white/grey box testing approaches
• Scope, rules of engagement, authorisation
• Responsible disclosure and CVE reporting