gray hat

[ grey hat ]

noun

, Computers Informal.

1. a hacker who violates the security of a system without true malicious intent but often without the prior knowledge or consent of the owner or developer, and who later reports system vulnerabilities to the authorities, sometimes for personal profit.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gray hat¹

First recorded in 2000–05; modeled after gray market ( def )

Example Sentences

The photos show Barnette, wearing a winter coat and gray hat, walking behind two Proud Boys members who were later indicted for participating in the Capitol riot.

From Reuters

The 45-year-old Irish actor donned just a gray hat, bandana around his wrist, and mini purple running shorts as he exercised in Coldwater Canyon Park.

From Fox News

A man wearing a sweatshirt and gray hat who was driving the red Ford Escape was trying to make his way through the crowd, he said.

From New York Times

A man wearing a sweatshirt and gray hat who was driving the red Ford Escape was trying to make his way through the crowd, he said.

From New York Times

That left James on the Lakers bench wearing a gray sweatshirt, gray hat dark gray shorts, giving instructions and watching his other two stars, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook, carry the load in his absence during a thrilling 125-121 overtime victory over the Spurs.

From Los Angeles Times