Tippity tap, Hacker
Originally the term hacker meant any skilled computer programmer that used their technical knowledge to triumph over a problem. However, due to mainstream media it refers to someone who gains access to systems through the use of bugs or exploits.
There are different levels of hackers.
Firstly, script kiddies use computer code or programs written by other more-skilled
persons to break into systems without understanding the technical knowledge
involved.
Next, there are crackers (no, not the
biscuit kind LOL) who are persons who also break into the
systems, but they got this name from the analogy of safe-cracking. To make a more distinct separation, now
there are:
- White hat hackers.
- Gray hat hackers.
- Black hat hackers.
The white hats are the most ethical (aka
good guys), who work to keep data and systems safe. In contrast, the black hats
are the least ethical (aka bad guys). Gray hats fit in-between and may break
laws or ethical standards; usually these are researchers who look for exploits
to research and improve security.
So, now that we have an idea of what
hacking is, why do people do it? Well, there are four reasons for hacking:
- Financial gain – to steal credit card numbers or personal information to carry out fraud or other criminal activities or engage in questionable tactics.
- Increased reputation – the hacker culture recognises many talented hackers and some may do it to gain fame and status.
- Corporate espionage – companies gain information from competitors or other companies on their products and services through theft; or leveraging information to obstruct companies.
- State-sponsored attacks – nations engage in cyber-warfare or cyber-episonage. By collecting intelligence on the enemy or initiating cyber-attacks that disable or obstruct the enemy.
Are you interested in becoming a hacker? Which one?
I'm interested in seeing them in jail. (The bad ones) Already suffered from identity theft, it sucked bank had to pay us back. ATM skimmers everywhere, no where is safe. I guess I gotta buy those Amazon and Steam Gift Cards again...
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear. I'll write a post on preventing those things.
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