Hacking is the practice of modifying computer hardware and software to achieve a goal outside of the creator’s original purpose. People who engage in hacking activities are often called hackers. Since the word “hack” has long been used to describe someone who is incompetent in their profession, some hackers claim that this term is offensive and does not adequately recognize their abilities.
Many hackers are techies who see hacking as an art form.
Computer hacking is most common among teens and young adults, although there are plenty of older hackers as well. Many hackers are true techies who like to learn more about how computers work and consider hacking to be an “art” form. They often enjoy programming and have specialized level skills in a specific program. For these people, hacking is a real-life application of their problem-solving skills. It is an opportunity to show your skills, not an opportunity to harm others.
Some companies hire hackers to protect their corporate networks.
Since a large number of hackers are self-taught prodigies, some companies employ hackers as part of their tech support team. These people use their skills to find flaws in the company’s security system so they can be fixed quickly. In many cases, this type of computer intrusion helps prevent identity theft and other serious computer crimes.
Using default administrative settings on modems makes them easy prey for hackers.
Computer hacking can also lead to other constructive technological developments, as many of the skills developed from hacking are applied to more conventional activities. For example, former computer hackers Dennis Ritchie and Ken Thompson created the UNIX operating system in the 1970s. This system had a major impact on the development of Linux, a free UNIX-like operating system. Shawn Fanning, the creator of Napster, is another hacker known for his accomplishments outside of hacking.
Conviction for some types of computer hacking can result in a severe sentence, including jail time.
Compared to those who develop an interest in hacking computers out of sheer intellectual curiosity, some hackers have less noble motives. Hackers who attempt to steal personal information, alter a company’s financial data, crack security codes to gain unauthorized network access, or perform other destructive activities are sometimes called “crackers.” This type of computer hacking can land you in federal prison for up to 20 years.
Insecure smartphones can be easily hacked on a public WiFi network.
If you’re interested in protecting your home computer from malicious hackers, we recommend investing in a good firewall. It’s also a good idea to regularly check software programs for updates. For example, Microsoft offers several free security patches for its Internet Explorer browser.
Hackers may try to access a user’s webcam to spy on them.
Some forms of computer hacking involve hardware modification.
