What is a Hacktivist?

What is a simple definition of hacktivist?

A simple definition of hacktivist comes from its name, which is derived from the words 'Hacker' and 'Activist'.

The way hacktivists work is by disrupting the computer systems of individuals and organisations. This is then followed by a variety of acts, denying the service to users, or if they break into the systems, they may leak important and confidential information, changing images or copy of the website, taking over social media platforms or tampering with marketing campaigns. The idea is to generate media attention ensuring their causes are seen and spoken about.

Here is an overview of some reported hacktivist causes and the purpose of their online attacks:

• Protecting freedom of speech, especially online.
• Protesting, with a main focus on war, capitalism, animal cruelty and globalisation.
• Demonstrating support, for citizen uprising and democracy.
• Supporting and helping immigrants and victims of war.
• Accessing government computer systems that pose a threat to the world.
• Accessing agricultural computer systems as an act of environmental protest.
• Preventing the financing of terrorist groups.
• Using social media platforms to support those who have been silenced or have their rights infringed.

These are all genuine and demonstrates how different each hacktivist groups or individual's causes are and the reasoning behind their attacks. Some of the most widely known hacktivist groups include;

Anonymous

The most well-known and recognised groups globally. Their main targets include the Church of Scientology, large corporations and governments and their institutions.

Masters of Deception (MOD)

This group is based in the United States and is famously known for hacking various large telephone companies.

Chaos Computer Club

Focusing mainly on government transparency and freedom of information. Chaos Computer Club is one of Europe's largest hacktivist groups consisting of over 6,000 active members.

Legion of Doom (LOD)

Still considered an inspiration to many hacktivist groups. Established in 1984 and world famous for posting the Hacker Manifesto, this group is considered one of the founding fathers of hacktivism.

What is an example of a hacktivism? 

 Hacktivist groups and individuals have a vast selection of tools and techniques used for their goals. Below are some examples of hacktivists campaigns and how they action them.

• Website Replication: This method works by mimicking an insisting and legitimate website. The URL will be changed slightly allowing the hacktivists to avoid censorship rules and gain access over the entire platform.
• DoS and DDoS attacks: DDoS , also known as Distributed Denial-of-Service, is a common tactic to flood the target's computer system and 'crashing' the website making it inaccessible to users.
• Blogs: Blogging anonymously is an easy way for individuals and groups to shed light on their target's issues, especially if there is censored or confidential paperwork involved.
• Doxing: This is a method that focuses specially on one person or organisation. Sensitive and private information is gathered over time and released to the public.
• Information Leaks: This tactic often requires the support of an 'insider' if the network wasn't breached by the hacktivists themselves, collecting sensitive information for the hacktivists who will then make it public.

An example of a hacktivist act which is highly publicised is the creation of WikiLeaks, the media company established in 2006 by founders Julian Assange and John Young. The purpose of WikiLeaks is freedom of speech and identifying false claims throughout world history records. You have no doubt read a number of American political scandals over the years thanks to WikiLeaks and their media team. 

Is it legal to be a hacktivist? 

No, it is understood that hacktivism is not legal and still considered a form of cybercrime. This is often debated, even within Hacktivist groups as many feel they are using their rights for freedom of speech. However, this is a stark contrast to other hacktivist groups and individuals accessing computer systems and stealing corporate and personal data from their victims.

Identifying lone and group hacktivists can often be an difficult task, making law enforcement difficult. This is due to the fact that the members of these groups are spread globally, making them tricky to pin point unless they combine their online attacks with physical protests. Having said that, most hacktivists groups ensure their physical protests are peaceful resulting in them avoiding legal prosecution all together.

An effective way of preventing hacktivist attacks is increasing online security and cyber protection. This has been an important focus for many organisations, especially in recent years. Here are some examples of precautions you can take with your cybersecurity for you and your company;

• Employ a cyber security team to carry out procedures, such as penetration tests to ensure your computer systems and networks are safe from cyber-attacks.
• Ensure you are educating your employees with updated cyber security training, especially those who have access to company emails to prevent your company falling victim to a phishing attack.
• Undergo a detailed cyber audit of the company, ensuring all weak spots are located and a cyber secure strategy is put in place. Continue these tests frequently to help identify and address weaknesses in the company's computer system and network. 

What is the difference between a hacker and a hacktivist? 

Admittedly it is difficult to see the difference between hackers and hacktivists. This is mainly due to the fact they both use the same tools for their attacks.

The main difference you'll find is hackers will often break into a computer system for monetary gain, or use the platform as a stage to 'show off' their technical talent. Hacktivists on the other hand are usually aiming to achieve a goal of social or political gain relating to their cause.

Conclusion 

Many feel that hacktivist and their movements are thought to be more ethical, but it is important to remember that certain aspects of hacking and hacktivism are illegal. This is a topic we will go into more detail in our next blog.

We hope this has cleared up a few questions you had about hacktivists and how they work. If you have any further questions, please leave us a comment below.