The History and Evolution of Hacking: From Tech Enthusiasts to Cybercriminals

With Shannon Sharpe’s Instagram getting hacked, I started to wonder exactly how vulnerable are celebrities and how vulnerable is the average woman? In a digital age where personal information can be easily accessed and exploited, the threat seems to be growing exponentially. Celebrities, with their high-profile statuses, often face more sophisticated attacks aimed at tarnishing their reputation or stealing sensitive data. Yet, the average woman, who may not have the same level of security measures, can be equally at risk of identity theft, cyberbullying, or other malicious activities. It raises important discussions about cybersecurity, privacy, and the steps we all need to take to protect our digital footprints.

So, let’s start at the beginning. What exactly is hacking? Hacking is the act of identifying and then exploiting weaknesses in a computer system or network, usually to gain unauthorized access to personal or organizational data. Hacking is not always a malicious activity, but the term has mostly negative connotations due to its association with cybercrime. Some hackers, known as “white hat” hackers, use their skills to help organizations improve their security by finding and fixing vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. On the other hand, “black hat” hackers have malicious intent and seek to exploit weaknesses for personal gain, often causing harm to individuals or organizations. There are also “gray hat” hackers who fall somewhere in between, sometimes breaking the law but without malicious intent, often exposing vulnerabilities publicly to prompt better security practices. Hacking can involve a wide variety of techniques, from social engineering to sophisticated software exploitation. Understanding the motivations behind hacking and the methods used can help us better protect our digital infrastructure.

So, how do hackers hack? Hackers use a variety of techniques to achieve their aims. Some of the most common methods include phishing, where fraudulent emails are sent to unsuspecting users to steal sensitive information, and malware, which involves malicious software designed to damage or disable systems. They also use techniques like SQL injection to exploit vulnerabilities in web applications, and brute force attacks that systematically guess passwords until they find the correct one. Additionally, social engineering tactics manipulate people into divulging confidential information. Hackers often combine these methods to increase their chances of success and stay ahead of security measures.

Social engineering is a manipulation technique designed to exploit human error to gain access to personal information. Using a fake identity and various psychological tricks, hackers can deceive you into disclosing personal or financial information. They may rely on phishing scams, spam emails or instant messages, or even fake websites to achieve this. These attacks can be highly sophisticated, incorporating elements like urgency and social proof to pressure unsuspecting victims. For instance, a hacker might pose as a trusted entity, such as a bank or a government agency, creating a sense of legitimacy. Additionally, they could collect data from social media profiles to craft more personalized and convincing schemes. The impact of social engineering attacks can be devastating, leading to financial loss, identity theft, and long-term damage to personal and professional relationships. Therefore, it is essential to stay vigilant, educate oneself about common tactics, and adopt robust security measures to minimize the risk of falling victim to these deceptive practices.

Hackers use different ways to obtain passwords. The trial and error method is known as a brute force attack, which involves hackers trying to guess every possible combination to gain access. This method can be extremely time-consuming but is often aided by powerful computers capable of processing numerous combinations in a short span. Hackers may also use simple algorithms to generate different combinations for letters, numbers, and symbols to help them identify password combinations, making the process somewhat more efficient. Another technique is known as a dictionary attack, which is a program that inserts common words into password fields to see if one works. This method relies on the tendency of many users to choose simple and commonly used passwords, such as “password” or “123456,” thus making it easier for attackers to breach accounts. To defend against these attacks, it’s important to use complex passwords and enable two-factor authentication where possible.

Hackers may also infiltrate a user’s device to install malware. More likely, they will target potential victims via email, instant messages and websites with downloadable content or peer-to-peer networks. These cybercriminals often employ sophisticated social engineering tactics to trick users into clicking on malicious links or downloading harmful files. Additionally, they might exploit vulnerabilities in software or operating systems, gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information and personal data. Ensuring robust cybersecurity measures, such as regular software updates and cautious online behavior, is essential to defend against these threats.

Rather than using malicious code to infiltrate someone’s computer, hackers can also simply take advantage of open wireless networks. Not everyone secures their router, and this can be exploited by hackers driving around looking for open, unsecured wireless connections. This is an activity known as wardriving. Once hackers are connected to the unsecured network, they only need to bypass basic security to gain access to devices connected to that network. Additionally, these cybercriminals can intercept data transmitted over the network, such as passwords, financial information, and personal messages. This information can then be used for identity theft, fraud, and other malicious activities. It’s essential for individuals to secure their wireless routers with strong passwords and encryption to prevent unauthorized access and protect their sensitive information.

Another method hackers may employ is to create programs that search for unprotected pathways into network systems and computers. These sophisticated programs, often referred to as exploit kits, can scan for vulnerabilities that have not yet been patched by the system administrators. Hackers may gain backdoor access by infecting a computer or system with a Trojan horse, created by hackers to acquire and steal important data without the victim noticing. Once implanted, the Trojan horse can open a hidden gateway, allowing the hacker to remotely control the system, siphon off sensitive information, install additional malware, or even use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks. Effective countermeasures include regularly updating software, employing robust antivirus defenses, and educating users on recognizing potential threats.

Hackers can create code which allows them to intercept and read emails. Most email programs today use encryption formulas which mean that even if hackers intercept a message, they can’t read it. This is because the information is transformed into a complex code that can only be decrypted with a specific key, usually known only to the sender and the receiver. Furthermore, modern encryption standards are continuously updated to thwart new hacking techniques. However, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and regularly update your software to ensure your email communications remain secure. It’s also advisable to use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

Some programs allow hackers to track every keystroke a computer user makes. Once installed on a victim’s computer, the programs record each keystroke, giving the hacker everything they need to infiltrate a system or steal someone’s identity. These malicious software applications, commonly known as keyloggers, can be extraordinarily difficult to detect and remove. They often operate in the background, undetected by the user, logging sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal identification information. The data gathered can then be sent back to the hacker, who can use it to access bank accounts, commit fraud, or even blackmail the victim. As technology advances, keyloggers continue to evolve, becoming more sophisticated and harder to defend against. This makes it crucial for computer users to utilize robust security measures, such as updated antivirus programs, firewalls, and safe browsing habits, to protect themselves from such invasive threats.

A zombie computer, or bot, is a computer that a hacker can use to send spam or commit Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. After a victim executes a seemingly innocent code, a connection opens between their computer and the hacker’s system. The hacker can then secretly control the victim’s computer, using it to commit crimes or spread spam. Often, these compromised computers are part of a larger network called a botnet, which consists of many infected machines working together to perform large-scale cyber operations. Botnets can be used for various malicious activities, including mining cryptocurrency without the owner’s knowledge, stealing sensitive information, and exploiting the victim’s resources for further attacks. Due to the covert nature of these attacks, many users may remain unaware that their system has been compromised, making detection and removal of the malware particularly challenging. This underlines the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and vigilant monitoring to protect against such threats.

So exactly what kind of damage can hackers actually cause?

Cybersecurity hacking can cause real havoc. Whatever technique hackers use, once they have gained access to your data or devices, they can steal sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal identification details. They can also install malicious software that can damage your system, disrupt your operations, and steal valuable business intelligence, even deleting or damaging important files on your computer. Furthermore, hackers can use your compromised devices to launch attacks on other networks, potentially leading to widespread data breaches and significant reputational damage. These activities can result in financial losses, legal repercussions, and a loss of trust from your clients and partners.

Hackers can steal your money and open credit card and bank accounts in your name, causing financial havoc. This could lead to a plummeting credit score and difficulty in securing loans or mortgages in the future. Moreover, you may face a labyrinth of bureaucratic hurdles to prove your identity and reclaim control of your finances, all while dealing with the emotional stress and uncertainty that identity theft brings. Destroying your credit rating can have a cascade of negative consequences that impact various aspects of your financial life, from getting approved for loans with reasonable interest rates to securing a lease on an apartment. It’s important to understand that failing to pay your bills on time, maxing out your credit cards, and defaulting on loans will significantly harm your credit score. The lower your credit score, the higher the risk you pose to lenders, which often results in higher interest rates and less favorable loan terms. Additionally, a poor credit rating can affect job prospects, as some employers conduct credit checks before making a hiring decision. Consequently, maintaining a good credit rating is crucial for achieving financial stability and accessing better economic opportunities.

Hackers, once they get access to your accounts, can request new account Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) or additional credit cards and make purchases on your behalf, or even add themselves or an alias that they control as an authorized user so it’s easier to use your credit. They are not just limited to making purchases; further, hackers can use your credit cards to obtain cash advances and/or sell your information to others who will use it for malicious purposes. They can use and abuse your Social Security number and personal information for identity theft, opening new accounts or loans in your name, and damaging your credit score. Additionally, hackers can obtain sensitive personal information and share it, or threaten to share it, publicly, leading to potential blackmail or reputational damage. They may also exploit this information to bypass security questions, manipulate your social media accounts, and gain access to even more of your private data.

So who are these hackers and why do they hack? Motivations for hacking vary. Some of the most common include: financial gain, as many hackers seek to steal credit card information or bank details; political activism, where hacking is used as a form of protest or to promote a cause; corporate espionage, involving the theft of trade secrets to gain a competitive edge; personal gratification, where the thrill of breaking into systems provides a challenge and satisfaction; and ideological reasons, otherwise known as hacktivism, where hackers might target organizations they disagree with e a form of civil disobedience. Some hackers use their skills to promote a particular political agenda or social movement as a form of civil disobedience. Some hackers are driven by curiosity, a desire to learn more about the inner workings of technology and can be motivated by a sense of achievement, that is, breaking ‘the system’. Hackers can be competitive, challenging each other and gaining recognition from their exploits. Social media gives them a platform to boast about their activities..

Other reasons can include Political espionage. Nation states can use hackers for political purposes. This might involve stealing classified data, interfering with elections, accessing government or military documents, or attempting to cause political unrest. Sometimes, hackers are motivated by anger – a desire to get revenge on individuals or organizations which they feel have wronged them in some way.

However, not all hacking is malicious. Some hacking, for example, white hat hacking or penetration testing, is done to test vulnerabilities with the aim of improving security for all users. White hat hacking is therefore considered ethical hacking. This type of hacking involves authorized efforts to breach systems with the intention of identifying security weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them. White hat hackers use their skills to help organizations mitigate potential threats, safeguard sensitive information, and ensure that their security measures are robust and up to date. Their work is crucial in the ongoing battle to protect data and maintain trust in digital infrastructures.

So what’s the history of hacking? How long has it been around?

While hacking these days has a mostly negative connotation, this wasn’t always the case. In the early days of computer hacking, hackers were seen as technology experts whose main motivation was to customize and optimize. As cybercrime evolved and became more complex and widespread, hacking became mostly associated with malicious activities. Let’s look at a brief history of hacking:

1960s

The term ‘hacking’ became associated with members of MIT’s Tech Model Railroad Club, who would ‘hack’ their high-tech train sets to modify their functions. They later moved on from toy trains to computers, experimenting with IBM 704s to try to expand the tasks that computers could carry out. Early hackers were interested in how they could explore, improve, and test the limits of existing programs. Their efforts often paid off, as they produced programs that were better than existing ones. As these enthusiasts delved deeper into the realm of computing, their collective knowledge grew, leading to the establishment of a vibrant community where information was shared freely and innovation thrived. They not only aimed to push the boundaries of what machines could do but also fostered a culture of collaboration and learning, which laid the groundwork for many of the technological advancements we enjoy today.

1970s

Computer hacking continued in the 1970s but diversified into telephone hacking. Phone hackers, also known as ‘phreakers’, tried to exploit operational characteristics in the telephone switching network, which had recently become completely electronic. John Draper achieved infamy when he discovered that a toy whistle found in Cap’n Crunch cereal produced the exact tone necessary – 2600 hertz – to indicate to long lines that a line was ready and available to route a new call. This allowed phreakers to dupe the network and make free long-distance calls. Interestingly, it was reported that Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak were phreakers before founding one of the most successful computer companies in the world. Phreaking wasn’t just about free calls; it represented a challenge to the system and a quest for knowledge among the curious minds of that era. Phreakers shared their findings through underground newsletters and meetups, forming a subculture that valued technical expertise and ingenuity. The skills they honed during these early experiments with telecommunication systems would later be applied to the burgeoning field of personal computing, solidifying the connection between phone phreaking and computer hacking.

1980s

In the 1980s, personal computers were no longer limited to businesses or universities – they became more widely available to the public. This increase in availability led to a significant rise in computer hacking. The nature of hacking changed too. Before, hacking was often about improving computers; however, the newer breed of hackers were primarily motivated by personal gain, including pirating software, creating viruses, and breaking into systems to steal information. As these malevolent activities grew, businesses and individuals had to enhance their awareness and defenses against such cyber threats. This period also saw the emergence of hacking as a subculture, with hackers forming groups and sharing their exploits and techniques. The law started to recognize this new reality, with the passing of the Federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Act in the US. This legislation aimed to address the increasing threats posed by computer crimes and establish legal repercussions for those who engaged in unauthorized activities. Additionally, companies began to invest more in cybersecurity measures and education to navigate this rapidly evolving digital landscape.

1990s

Hacking really achieved notoriety in the 1990s, with some high-profile cybercrimes and arrests. Notable hackers in this decade included Kevin Mitnick, Kevin Poulsen, Robert Morris, and Vladimir Levin, who were convicted of crimes ranging from stealing proprietary software and tricking radio stations to win expensive cars to launching the first computer worm and carrying out the first digital bank heist. These early cybercriminals exposed significant vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks that were not fully understood by the general public or many organizations at the time. The media coverage of their exploits and their subsequent apprehension often painted them as both criminal masterminds and maverick anti-heroes. Their activities spurred increased security measures and the development of new technologies aimed at safeguarding sensitive information, highlighting the evolving battle between digital security experts and those who sought to exploit system weaknesses.

2000s

Government agencies and large corporations were increasingly subject to cybersecurity hacking. Prominent victims included Microsoft, eBay, Yahoo! and Amazon, who all fell victim to Distributed Denial of Service attacks. These attacks led to significant disruptions in their services, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most robust networks to cyber threats. Famously, the US Department of Defense and the International Space Station both had their systems breached by a 15-year-old boy. This astonishing breach underscored the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and sparked a broader conversation about the evolving sophistication of cyber threats. Companies and governments alike began investing heavily in cybersecurity infrastructure, training personnel, and developing more advanced technologies to safeguard their data and systems.

2010s

With the internet now a central part of daily life, hacking became more sophisticated than ever. New cyber threats emerged on a regular basis, ranging from data breaches and ransomware attacks to phishing schemes and advanced persistent threats. During this decade, the hacktivist group known as Anonymous came to prominence, exposing government secrets, infiltrating corporate networks, and leading digital crusades which they believed furthered the public interest. Their actions drew massive media attention and sparked debates over the ethics of hacktivism. In response to both hacktivists and rising cybercrime, governments, big corporations, and computer giants worked hard to improve their systems by investing heavily in advanced cybersecurity measures, forming strategic alliances, and pushing for stricter regulations. Cybersecurity experts continue to innovate, developing cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning to stay one step ahead of the hackers. This ongoing battle between cybersecurity and cybercrime has become a crucial aspect of our interconnected world, impacting everything from personal privacy to national security.

Hacking prevention

You can protect yourself against hackers by following good cybersecurity hygiene. Here are some key hacking prevention tips to bear in mind: use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts, enable two-factor authentication whenever possible, keep your software and systems updated with the latest security patches, and be cautious of phishing scams. Additionally, regularly back up your important data to an external hard drive or a cloud service, and use antivirus software to detect and remove potential threats. By staying informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to hackers.

I can’t emphasize enough the importance of using strong passwords. A big part of hacking is getting hold of users’ passwords. It is therefore essential to use a strong and unique password for each online account. A strong password is made up of at least 12 characters – ideally more – and is a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. It can be difficult keeping track of multiple passwords, so using a password manager can help. A password manager not only stores your passwords securely but can also generate strong passwords for you, ensuring that each one meets the recommended security standards. Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible adds an extra layer of security, making it even harder for hackers to gain unauthorized access to your accounts. By combining strong passwords, a reliable password manager, and MFA, you significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyber-attacks and protect your sensitive information from being compromised. Turn on two-factor or multi-factor authentication for as many of your online accounts as possible. MFA uses a second piece of information – often a code generated by an app or sent via SMS – alongside a password, adding another layer of security to your accounts. Beyond these measures, it’s also wise to be cautious of phishing scams, which attempt to trick you into revealing your passwords. Always double-check the source of emails or messages that ask for login information. Regularly updating your passwords and keeping your software up to date can further bolster your defenses. Successful hacking often starts with phishing emails or texts. Be alert: when a new email or text message arrives, and it includes a link or attachment, our initial instinct can often be to click or tap on it. Avoid this temptation – don’t open messages from unknown senders, never click on a link or open an attachment in an email you’re not sure about and delete messages you suspect to be spam. Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing process, and staying vigilant is the key to maintaining the security of your digital life.

Your digital life, or digital footprint, is the data you leave behind when using the internet. It’s a good idea to proactively manage your digital footprint – steps you can take include deleting old accounts and apps you no longer use, reviewing your privacy settings on social media and ensuring these are set to a level you feel comfortable with, being careful about what you post and avoiding disclosing personal or financial details about yourself in public, checking your browser for cookies and regularly deleting unwanted cookies, using privacy tools such as anonymous browsers, private search engines or anti-tracking tools, and keeping your devices and software up to date. Updates typically include the latest security patches – that is, solutions to the security vulnerabilities which hackers love to exploit. By making sure that your operating system, applications, and devices are kept up to date, you maximize your security against hackers. Moreover, consider using strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts, and employ a reliable password manager to keep track of them. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is another excellent measure to enhance your security; it ensures that even if your password is compromised, unauthorized access to your accounts is harder to achieve. Regularly monitoring your online presence, like conducting searches of your name and checking what information is publicly accessible, can help you stay on top of any potential issues. Additionally, be mindful of the permissions you grant to apps and services, as these can sometimes collect more data about you than necessary. By taking these steps, you can better control your digital footprint and safeguard your privacy and security in an increasingly connected world.

You should also keep your devices stored securely. Always lock your devices using either fingerprint recognition, a secure PIN (not something obvious like your date of birth) or a unique gesture. Install Find My iPhone (Apple) or set up Find My Device (Android) in case your phone goes missing. Avoid questionable websites and only download software from sites you trust. Carefully evaluate free software and file-sharing applications before downloading them. Only carry out transactions on websites which have an up-to-date security certificate – they will start with HTTPS instead of HTTP and there will be padlock icon in the address bar. Be very selective about who you share your data with. Turn off features you don’t need. Hackers can use certain features on your phone to identify your information, location, or connection. To prevent this, turn off your GPS, wireless connection, and geo-tracking when you don’t need them and do not access personal or financial data over public Wi-Fi. If you have to go online in a public place using a public Wi-Fi connection, you have no direct control over its security so avoid carrying out personal transactions such as online banking or online shopping. If you do need to do these types of things, use a Virtual Private Network or VPN. A VPN will protect any data you send over an unsecured network. If you don’t use a VPN, then hold off any personal transactions until you are able to use a trusted internet connection. And, lastly, make sure that you have the best security software products installed on your device. A good antivirus should work 24/7 to secure your devices and data, blocking common and complex threats like viruses, malware, ransomware, spy apps and all the latest hacker tricks.

Even with all these precautions, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest security threats and trends. Cybercriminals are constantly innovating, finding new ways to bypass defenses and exploit weaknesses. Building your knowledge and understanding how to recognize new forms of attacks can give you an edge. Consider joining cybersecurity forums or following credible sources that provide updates and tips. Implementing these strategies in your daily routine can make a substantial difference in your overall security posture. It is also worth investing in comprehensive security software that provides real-time threat detection and protection. By taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity, you can ensure a safer online experience for yourself and your loved ones.