Computer Hacking

Term Paper # 99393

Computer and Technology
Criminology

Computer Hacking

This paper discusses how computer hackers gain entry to another's computer files.

1,882 words () | 8 sources | MLA | 2007 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper defines "hackers" and describes the sophisticated techniques they now use to gain entry into the personal electronic databases and computers of others. The paper explains "back door" viruses and explores what everyday PC users can do to prevent hackers and the viruses they spawn from intruding upon one's life. The paper concludes that a commitment to frequently updating PC components and overall vigilance is often sufficient to overcome the cleverness of professional hackers.

From the Paper:

"To begin with, it is important to understand precisely who and what hackers are. For one thing, hackers are individuals who use their computer skills unlawfully (that is to say, without authorization) to enter the network files, computer networks and/or databases of other individuals, businesses or organizations ("Hacker" defin.2). The motivations which drive these individuals are, unsurprisingly, complex, but it appears as though many hackers intrinsically welcome the personal challenge involved in breaking down a computer or network's defenses (Voiskounsky & Smyslova, 2003). In that sense, a good many hackers may be defined as egotists who commit these acts simply because they can. On the other hand, hackers tend also to be (but by no means exclusively) emotionally immature individuals who engage in their nefarious activities out of a desire to either rebel against society or out of a desire to participate in a form of thrill-seeking."

Sample of Sources Used:

Hacker. (2006). Hacker: Definition and much more from Answers.com. Retrieved September 13, 2006 from <http://www.answers.com/topic/hacker>
Hackers hacking your website? (2006). Active Web Host: Your Success Is Our Success. Retrieved September 13, 2006, from <http://www.activewebhost.com/articles/hackers_hacking_your_website.htm>
Hice, Randy C. (2003). I spy: Have you opened the door to hackers? Scientific Computing and Instrumentation, 20(5): 10-11.
Johnston, Jeff. (n.d.). Virus categories. The Virus Threat. Retrieved September 13, 2006, from <http://www.suite101.com/lesson.cfm/17999/1264/6>
Voiskounsky, Alexander E., & Smyslova, Olga V. (2003). Flow-based model of computer hackers' motivation. Cyberpsychology and Behavior: the Impact of the Internet, Multimedia and Virtual Reality on Behavior and Society, 6(2): 171-80.