Ethical hackers taught by distance learning

A UK distance learning school has launched a course in professional computer hacking skills.

The 300-hour accredited programme in ‘ethical hacking’ from the International Correspondence School (ICS) teaches participants the methods used by criminal hackers.

Ethical hackers, also known as ‘white hats’, are paid to search for the weaknesses in computer security systems that make them vulnerable to attack.

They are usually employed by anti-cybercrime units in the corporate and public sector.

Students on the £1,800 course never have to visit the ICS offices in Glasgow, but learn through lessons sent in the post and on the internet.

Skills they will learn include how to run denial-of-service attacks, how to create viruses, and the social engineering tricks that hackers use.

Because the skills learnt on the course could easily be used for criminal gain, ICS says applications to the course are subject to a strict vetting procedure.