Types of Hacking - Coursework Example

The term “hacker” is presently too broad to represent the specifics of the different sorts of computer-related attacks. In order to incorporate all of the different computer attacks in a way that facilitates understanding it will be necessary to identify specific sub-categories that will fall under the umbrella of “hackers” (Howard, 1997). These subgroups may be organized based upon the level of severity of the attack; from more petty novices invasions to the attacks by the, more dangerous, professional criminals.

How a particular “hacker” would be rated would depend upon the motivations and causes behind their behavior (Post, 1996). Hacking is a specialized activity that requires a very specific skill set, a familiarity with computers, with multiple systems or networks, as well as a, relatively, advanced understanding of computer technologies (Howard, 1997). It is necessary for the “hackers” to plan the details of his attack well ahead of time if he or she hopes to be successful in the attempt (Goldstein, 1997).

In most circumstances individuals with the intention of “hacking” into a system or network are seldom random, in fact, is most often always chosen well before the attack will take place (Howard, 1997).General speaking there are three primary categories based upon the intentions of attackers' actions. The first is called unsophisticated “script kiddies,” which are responsible for the majority of cyber intrusions. The second category is titled “crackers,” these individuals who conduct cyber attacks for personal gain or malicious purposes.

Lastly, the third category, “hackers,” which, specifically, are more sophisticated attackers whose action can be attributed to curiosity rather than malicious intent. Members of these groups could apply their skills to identifying and suggesting ways to improve existing systems and help to close any weaknesses or exploitable holes. The issue arises because much of this research into a given system occurs without the authorization of that system’s owner. Any single cyber attack could conceivably involve multiple numbers of actors with varying intentions, which makes it difficult to define the nature of the attack as belonging to any single approach or category (Harris, 2012).