Computer Hackers

Computer hacking is a somewhat recent addition to our terminology. Coined in the mid-80s, hacking means to break into a computer system - like a digitally picking a lock.

Originally, a hacker was just someone who works on computers with exceptional enthusiasm and a sense of exploration. Hackers were more interested in gaining knowledge about computer systems and performing playful pranks. Lately, though, "hacking" has come to mean electronic trespassing and acting with malice.

These attacks range from obtaining access to the hard disks, to causing machines to crash. Malicious hackers use their skills destructively--such as "denial-of-service" attacks--like those that shut down the Internet sites E-Bay and Yahoo last February.

Pranksters don't cause any harm, but still leave their mark. One of the most common forms is to alter a Web site. For example, In September of 1996 a group of hackers changed the CIA's home page to read "Welcome to the Central Stupidity Agency."

The explosion of viruses is yet another example. Viruses like the Melissa overload e-mail systems by sending excessive mail and those like the Love Bug overwrite computer files destroying the users' data. One of the most deadliest, Chernobyl overwrites the BIOS Chip leaving the user unable to boot (or start) their computer.

Hackers have also broken in and stolen credit cards numbers, have modified the contents of bank accounts and have invaded military computer systems. Unfortunately, law enforcement has yet to take action on any but the largest, most prominent computer crimes.

Viruses and computer hackers will cost businesses around the world more than $1.5 trillion in the year 2000, according to study by Information Week Research. Hackers were once viewed as clever pranksters, according to the study, but are now seen as real threats.

The good news is that security and protections are available to counter the activities of hackers. In our homes, we use door locks, burglar alarms, and so on to feel safe. In our computers, we have anti-virus programs, firewalls, and passwords. Our Internet Service Providers and software manufacturers provide many of these.

For example:

· Anti-virus programs (i.e. Norton, McAffee, Dr. Solomon) provide screening to alerts us to anything being written to our system files.
· ZoneAlarm, (www.zonelabs.com) is a personal firewall program that protects us from anyone trying to access our computer.
· In addition, passwords keep unwanted guests from helping themselves to our information.

Given the nature of the Internet, there will always be security vulnerabilities. The main target is business, hacking individual PCs is not as common…so rest easy! However, there is constant change in the industry. Your best defense is to stay informed.