Password cracking programs reverse the hashing process to recover passwords. (True/False.)
Correct Answer: B
Hashing is a one-way function-by design, it cannot be reversed. Password-cracking tools do not "reverse" the hash. Instead, they:
Generate a list of potential passwords.
Hash each candidate using the same algorithm.
Compare the result to the target hash.
If a match is found, the original password is revealed by correlation, not reversal.
From CEH v13 Official Courseware:
Module 6: Cryptography and Password Cracking
CEH v13 Study Guide states:
"Hash functions are one-way and irreversible. Password-cracking tools work by hashing wordlists or character combinations and comparing them to known password hashes." Reference:CEH v13 Study Guide - Module 6: Password Hashing ConceptsNIST FIPS 180-4 - Secure Hash Standard