Hactivist

A hacktivist is a hacker who engages in hacking activities as a form of political activism or social protest. The term "hacktivist" is a portmanteau of "hacker" and "activist". Hactivists use their technical skills to disrupt, deface, or expose information from websites or computer systems belonging to governments, corporations, or other organizations they deem unethical or oppressive. Their motivations can range from advocating for freedom of speech and information to protesting specific policies or events.

Hactivist actions often involve digital means such as denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, website defacement, data leaks, or the release of sensitive information. These actions are intended to draw attention to a cause, to inconvenience or embarrass the target, or to disrupt their operations. Unlike cybercriminals who primarily seek financial gain, hacktivists are driven by ideology.

The legality and ethics of hacktivism are subjects of considerable debate. Supporters argue that hacktivism can be a powerful tool for transparency and accountability, giving voice to those who might otherwise be unheard and challenging powerful entities. Critics, however, view hacktivism as a form of cybercrime, emphasizing the potential for damage to infrastructure, the violation of privacy, and the illegitimacy of taking the law into one's own hands. Many hacktivist groups operate anonymously, making attribution and prosecution difficult.