“An ethical hacker has to think like an illegal hacker. In a sense he is doing the same job but legally. Only he is doing the opposite, instead of stealing anything online,” says Gautam.

Who is an ethical hacker?

Certified ethical hackers are hired when companies want someone from outside to test their systems for penetration by illegal hackers. Software engineers, B.Sc (Computer Science) graduates with degrees in certified hacking, anyone with an understanding of programmes and codes and knows how to exploit a system are into ethical hacking. Like ETA NetServe, Sify, HCL, IBM and Wipro are also providing ethical hacking services. Dell employs over 500 security analysts including ethical hackers.

What do they do?

They ensure online security to IT companies, patrol Internet highways plugging holes and preventing online crime. However, they cannot talk about their work because they are governed by No Disclosure Agreements.

What do they charge?

Ethical hackers are highly paid. Companies dish out between Rs 5 lakh, for intermittent checks over six months, to

Rs 1 crore per annum. Some ethical consultants charge on an hourly basis.