Common Methods Used by Hackers to Compromise Network Security:

1. Phishing Attacks: Hackers send fraudulent emails or messages to trick users into revealing sensitive information or installing malware.

2. Ransomware: Hackers use malicious software to encrypt files or systems, holding them ransom until payment is made.

3. Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks: Hackers flood a network with traffic to overwhelm it, causing disruptions or downtime.

4. Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: Hackers intercept communication between two parties to steal data or manipulate information.

5. SQL Injection: Hackers exploit vulnerabilities in a website's database to access or modify sensitive information.

6. Social Engineering: Hackers manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information or giving them access to a network.

7. Brute Force Attacks: Hackers use automated tools to systematically try different combinations of passwords until they gain access to a system.

8. Malware: Hackers distribute malicious software that can steal data, spy on users, or disrupt network operations.

9. Zero-Day Exploits: Hackers target vulnerabilities in software or hardware that are not yet known to the vendor, allowing them to exploit the weakness before a patch is released.

10. Insider Threats: Hackers with authorized access to a network or system abuse their privileges to compromise security from within.