Hackers and Crackers

People who break into computer systems are not always strangers with malicious intent. The section introduces two closely related terms — hackers and crackers — and treats them as people with deep technical expertise. The key idea is that their skill set is identical; what separates them is the intent behind using that skill.

Both hackers and crackers possess a thorough knowledge of computer systems, system software such as the operating system, computer networks, and programming. They apply this knowledge to locate loopholes and vulnerabilities in computer systems or networks, and then use those weaknesses to gain access to unauthorised information.

In simple terms, a hacker is a person skilled enough to hack into or take control of a computer system. The classification of hackers depends on their intent, and the book notes that there are different types of hackers based on this intent.

The essential distinction to remember:

• Hackers — skilled individuals who break into systems; their intent determines their type. …