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Hacking is breaking into a computer system, network or device without the owner’s permission. Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities to gain access and use the information and devices for malicious purposes. This may include stealing money, information or data. Hacking also can cause damage and disruptions to businesses, individuals and communities.

The stereotypical depiction of hackers in movies and online portrays precocious teens breaching major companies’ systems for notoriety, but hackers are found across a broad demographic profile and range of skillsets. They can be self-taught or professionally trained. Many hackers also use artificial intelligence and machine learning to develop new ways to infiltrate systems and devices.

While the motivations of individual hackers vary, most are driven by one or more of the following:

Steal money or information: Hackers can steal credit card numbers, loyalty account information, and other personal details to take over a person’s finances, accounts or devices. They can also gain access to a company’s systems by impersonating a wireless access point and tricking users into connecting.

Gain notoriety: Some hackers publish proof of their hacks in order to gain public recognition. This type of hacking is often carried out by ‘hacktivists’ who aim to raise awareness about specific issues or problems.

Ethical hacking aims to make a company’s cybersecurity stronger by finding and fixing weaknesses. It is a process that can be done internally by staff or externally with specialized consulting firms or platforms such as HackerOne where freelance professionals are offered financial rewards to find security flaws in companies’ products. Stronger security lowers downtime and helps the business run smoothly.