In the rapidly evolving world of technology, one topic that consistently maintains relevance and urgency is cybersecurity. From private individuals to multinational corporations, data breaches and cyber attacks pose an omnipresent risk. In particular, the various types of computer hacking are serious threats to our digital safety. Acquiring a deep understanding of these computer hacking types is the first step towards protecting your digital assets.

Computer hacking involves an intrusion into computer networks or systems by exploiting vulnerabilities, often with malicious intentions. At the core of most cyber threats, you will find a variety of hacking methods that cybercriminals use to infiltrate your systems. In this guide, we will delve into some of the most common computer hacking types that pose threats to our cyber safety.

1. Password Hacking

This is perhaps the most simplistic and common of the computer hacking types. Hackers target the weakest link in a system’s security, which is often the human user. Through common tactics such as phishing or installing keyloggers, hackers attempt to gain passwords unlawfully. Protecting against this demands a combination of regular password updates, use of secure and unique passwords, and employing two-factor authentication.

2. SQL Injection

This type of hack exploits vulnerabilities in a website or web application’s database, particularly those that use SQL. By manipulating SQL commands, a hacker can gain unauthorized access to the database, alter, delete or steal data. Deploying parameterized queries or prepared statements can protect your database from SQL injections.

3. Denial-of-Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attacks

These attacks aim not to steal information but disrupt the service to users. In a DoS attack, a hacker overwhelms a system’s resources so it cannot respond to service requests. In a DDoS attack, this is achieved by flooding the targeted system from many different sources. Implementing robust network architecture and security policies can help to mitigate the risks of these attacks.

4. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attack

In this scenario, the hacker intercepts the communication between two systems to eavesdrop or impersonate the parties. End-to-end encryption is a primary method to prevent MitM attacks both in the home and work environments.

5. Phishing and Spear Phishing Attacks

In Phishing attacks, the hacker dishonestly presents as a reputable entity through an email or other communication channels to collect sensitive information. Spear phishing is a more targeted version where specific individuals or companies are targeted. Awareness and education about such tactics can significantly reduce the risk of these attacks.

6. Session Hijacking

This method exploits the web session control mechanism to steal information. In a session hijacking, the attacker usurps the user’s session, effectively impersonating the user. Secure, encrypted connections are key to prevent session hijacking.

7. Zero-day Exploit

A zero-day exploit occurs when a hacker identifies a network vulnerability before the developers do, giving them the opportunity to exploit it. Robust and routine testing, along with staying up-to-date on latest patches, can help to defend against zero-day exploits.

In conclusion, understanding the different types of computer hacking is a daunting task given the evolving nature of digital threats we face today. Awareness of these computer hacking types is crucial if your security strategies are to stay one step ahead. Whether it's protecting your personal data or safeguarding your organization's digital resources, knowing your enemy's tactics is the first line of defense. Bear in mind that, while technology can provide robust defenses against hacking, the human element is equally crucial - a large number of hacks exploit human error to gain access. As such, education and evocative security cultures are cornerstones of cybersecurity.