What term is used to describe hackers who are among the first to find and exploit vulnerabilities?

The term "Elite" refers to hackers who are highly skilled and often among the first to discover and exploit newly found vulnerabilities. These individuals have a deep understanding of systems, networks, and code, allowing them to identify weaknesses that may not yet be widely known or understood by others in the hacking community. Their expertise typically surpasses that of novice hackers and even some professionals, enabling them to navigate challenges and develop sophisticated methods for exploitation.

In contrast, Script Kiddies are generally less skilled and rely on pre-written scripts or tools created by others to conduct attacks. Black Hats are hackers who violate laws or ethical standards for personal gain, but they may not necessarily be the first to exploit vulnerabilities. Gray Hats fall somewhere in between; they may exploit vulnerabilities but often do so without malicious intent or with the purpose of informing the affected parties. Each of these groups has distinct characteristics, but the "Elite" hackers are especially notable for their pioneering efforts in exploring and exploiting vulnerabilities.