What Is Hacking?
Hacking is the act of gaining unauthorized access to computer systems, networks or information. It’s a broad term that can include illegal activities like stealing passwords, identity theft or Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. It also can involve exploiting security flaws, breaching privacy laws or attacking organizations that don’t prioritize cybersecurity. Ethical hackers (also known as white hat hackers) use their skills to help companies find and fix these vulnerabilities so malicious actors can’t exploit them.
The term “hacking” first gained notoriety in the 1990s, with high-profile cybercrimes and arrests including those of teenagers who hacked into the systems of the Department of Defense and NASA as well as a host of large corporations. They were able to wreak havoc by hacking into their targets’ computer systems, gaining access to passwords and other personal information and even launching DDoS attacks.
Many hackers are motivated by financial gain – whether it’s selling passwords, stealing credit card and bank information or posting data online to ruin someone’s reputation. Others may be looking for revenge or simply enjoy the challenge of breaking into systems they’re not authorized to touch. Then there are the “script kiddies,” who are new to hacking and attempt to do so with pre-written scripts.
The best way to prevent yourself from falling victim to a hack is by keeping your software and devices up-to-date, limiting the amount of personal information you share on social media, and never clicking on links or opening attachments in emails or texts that you suspect are suspicious.