The mysterious world of hackers: who are they and what do they do?

Through our Digital Marketing Agency Optimize 360

In the world of technology and computing, there is a term that often intrigues the uninitiated: hacker.

Behind this word lies a complex world alternating between a passion for knowledge and a desire to cause harm.

What are hackers and what are their motivations?

A hacker is a person with computer skills that enable them to access information, systems or networks without authorisation. The hackers are also known as "hackers

Different types of hacker are often driven by different motivations, ranging from simple curiosity to the desire to commit malicious acts.

Ethical hackers or "White Hat

These specialist hackers work to improve IT security and protect data.

They use their in-depth knowledge to detect flaws in software protection and security systems to help businesses and organisations better defend themselves against cyber attacks.

Their work is legal and recognised, and they sometimes work closely with governments and official bodies.

Malicious hackers or "Black Hat

At the other end of the spectrum, these individuals use their know-how for illegal activities such as stealing personal data, espionage, financial fraud and propaganda.

Their skills are often called upon by criminal or terrorist groups, jeopardising the security and confidentiality of information on the Internet.

Grey Hat hackers

This type of hacker is somewhere between the previous two, sometimes acting legally but without authorisation.

They may uncover security flaws for their own profit, selling their findings to vulnerable companies or organisations.

Nevertheless, some choose to share this information free of charge, in the hope of contributing to better protection of cyberspace.

How do you become a hacker?

The path to becoming a hacker can take different forms depending on the individual.

Some develop a passion for computer systems from an early age, while others discover their vocation during their higher education or professional studies.

Whatever the case, there are a number of things you need to know to become a hacker.

Mastering technical skills

A hacker must have a solid knowledge in various fields such as :

- programming (C++, Python, Java, etc.) ;
- computer networks and communication protocols ;
- operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS) ;
- encryption technologies and authentication mechanisms.

An inquisitive and analytical mind

Hackers are often driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to learn constantly.

They must be capable of analysing complex situations, solving technical problems and finding innovative solutions to bypass the safeguards in place.

An ability to adapt

The world of cybersecurity is evolving rapidly, and threats and protection technologies are constantly changing.

Hackers therefore have to adapt constantly, updating their skills and knowledge to remain effective in their actions.

What areas do hackers target?

These days, hacking affects many sectors, and no company or organisation is truly immune. Hackers' favourite targets include :

Financial structures: banks and online payment systems are regularly targeted to steal sensitive information or carry out fraudulent transactions.
Government bodies: some cyber attacks aim to steal strategic data, or even destabilise institutions in a foreign country.
Companies in the technology sector: digital giants such as Googleon Amazon, Facebook or Microsoft are renowned for their expertise and are constantly under observation by hackers seeking to exploit the flaws in their systems.
Individuals: identity theft and digital blackmail, often through the use of ransomware (malicious software), affect millions of people around the world every year.

How can I protect myself from hackers?

Even if the threat seems omnipresent, there are ways of protecting yourself against the malicious actions of hackers. Here are a few tips to strengthen your digital security and guard against illegal activity.

Update your software regularly This means that any security vulnerabilities identified can be corrected and you can benefit from the latest advances in protection.
Use anti-virus software and a firewall These tools provide an initial barrier against potential intrusions into your IT system.
Choose complex and unique passwords Avoid simple, predictable combinations, and remember to change your access codes regularly.
Don't reveal sensitive information on the Internet Be vigilant when communicating online and do not give out your personal or banking details easily.
Use common sense Ignore suspicious messages, don't click on unfamiliar links and beware of overly tempting offers.

By remembering that learning and vigilance are your best allies in guarding against computer threats, you can significantly increase your level of protection against hackers.

FAQ about Hackers

Questions asked by Internet users

What is a hacker?

A hacker is often seen as someone with advanced computer expertise, capable of manipulating systems and networks to achieve their goals.

Traditionally, the term evoked a expert programming and problem-solving, and innovative use of technology.

However, in common parlance, 'hacker' has become synonymous with 'cybercriminal', referring to someone who illegally penetrates computer systems to steal, alter or destroy data.

It is important to note that there are different types of hackers, including 'ethical hackers' or 'white hat hackers', who use their skills to improve IT security and protect systems from malicious attacks.

What is the purpose of a hacker?

The aim of a hacker varies greatly depending on his or her intentions and ethics. For some, it's about meeting technical challenges, exploring the limits of computer systems and developing innovative solutions.

These hackers, often referred to as 'white hats', work to strengthen system security by identifying and correcting vulnerabilities.

On the other hand, 'black hats', or malicious hackers, seek to exploit these vulnerabilities for illegal purposes such as data theft, fraud or computer sabotage.

Between these two extremes, there are 'grey hats', who often operate without authorisation but with intentions that are not necessarily malicious, such as reporting security flaws. So a hacker's goal depends very much on his or her ethical alignment and personal or professional objectives.

What does a hacker do?

The work of a hacker involves a variety of technical tasks focusing on computer systems and networks.

For ethical hackers or 'white hats', their work mainly consists of testing the security of IT systems, identifying vulnerabilities and proposing solutions to strengthen them.

They can be used by companies to carry out penetration tests and security audits, in order to prevent cyber-attacks.

On the other hand, malicious hackers, or 'black hats', engage in illegal activities such as hacking into systems, stealing confidential data, creating and distributing malicious software, and hijacking networks.

In between these two categories, some hackers, known as 'grey hats', may carry out unauthorised activities, such as hacking into systems, but with the intention of reporting flaws rather than causing harm.

In short, a hacker's work varies considerably depending on his or her motivations and ethics.

Who is the best-known hacker?

Among the most emblematic figures in the world of hacking, Kevin Mitnick is often cited as the best-known hacker.

Once considered one of the most wanted cybercriminals in the US, Mitnick gained notoriety for his numerous intrusions into corporate and government networks during the 1980s and 1990s.

After being convicted and serving a prison sentence, he radically changed course. Today, Mitnick is a respected IT security consultant, sharing his expertise to help companies protect themselves against the kinds of attacks he once mastered.

His story, marked by a transition from malicious hacker to security expert, illustrates the complexity and diversity of career paths in the world of hacking.

Mitnick remains an influential figure and an example of how hackers redefine their identity over time.