In the cyber world, black hat hackers use their skills with malicious intent. Identify the correct order for a successful black hat operation. Choose the correct answer from the options given below.

The correct order of a successful black hat operation runs reconnaissance, scanning, gaining access, maintaining access and covering tracks.

Statement 2 reconnaissance comes first as the attacker gathers information about the target.

Statement 1 scanning follows, probing the target for open ports and vulnerabilities.

Statement 3 gaining access comes next as the attacker exploits a weakness to break in.

Statement 5 maintaining access follows so the intruder can return and keep control.

Statement 4 covering tracks comes last, erasing evidence to avoid detection.

This ordered chain mirrors the standard phases of a hacking attack.