Hack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hack
[hæk ]
Definitions
cybersecurity
A person who uses computers to gain unauthorized access to data.
Synonyms
cybercriminal, intruder, phreaker.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hack |
Typically used to describe the act of gaining unauthorized access to digital systems or data. It can sometimes be used informally to describe a clever solution or workaround.
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| cybercriminal |
Describes a person engaged in criminal activities involving computers or networks, often with the aim of stealing information or causing harm.
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| intruder |
Refers to someone who illegally enters a property or system. This term can apply both to physical break-ins and digital breaches.
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| phreaker |
An older term, often used to describe individuals who manipulate telecommunications systems, particularly to make free phone calls, popular in the 1970s and 1980s.
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Examples of usage
- The company hired a cybersecurity expert to protect their data from hackers.
- Hackers are constantly looking for vulnerabilities in the system.
computing
To gain unauthorized access to data or a computer system.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hack |
Use when referring to the general act of gaining unauthorized access to systems, often implying a skillful or clever approach. Can also be used in a more general sense for creative problem-solving.
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| breach |
Best used to describe a situation where security has been broken, usually implying a serious failure in protection. Often used in formal or legal contexts.
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| crack |
Used to describe the act of breaking into a system, typically implying the use of specialized tools or techniques. It is often associated with illegal activity and has a negative connotation.
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| exploit |
Refers to the use of vulnerabilities in systems to gain unauthorized access, often highlighting the method used rather than the act itself. Can be used both in technical and general discussions.
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Examples of usage
- He hacked into the company's database to steal sensitive information.
- The hacker was able to bypass the security measures.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Popular shows like 'Mr. Robot' have explored hacking culture and its moral dilemmas, portraying both the thrill and the risks involved.
- Movies like 'Hackers' from the 1990s depict a group of teens showcasing their technical skills while navigating a corporate conspiracy.
- Video games often include hacking as a gameplay mechanic, allowing players to unlock new areas or abilities.
Science
- Ethical hacking aims to improve security systems and is used by organizations to prevent malicious attacks.
- Research in cybersecurity shows that understanding hacking techniques plays a crucial role in protecting sensitive data.
- Hacking tools like virtual machines allow testers to simulate attacks without damaging real systems.
Psychology
- The phenomenon of 'hacker culture' encourages problem-solving skills and collaboration among tech enthusiasts.
- Many hackers are driven by the challenge and excitement of solving complex puzzles, reflecting a deep psychological need for creativity.
- There’s a common stereotype of hackers as socially awkward, but many are just passionate about technology and innovation.
Literature
- Books such as 'Ghost in the Wires' by Kevin Mitnick offer an insider's look at the life of a notorious hacker and the thrill of chasing challenges.
- Hacking is a recurring theme in dystopian literature, symbolizing the struggle against oppressive systems and the quest for freedom.
- The hacker protagonist is a popular trope in many novels, representing rebellion and the fight against injustice.
Origin of 'hack'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'hack' originally meant to cut or chop quickly, derived from the Middle English term 'hakke'.
- In the 1960s, it evolved in computer programming to mean a clever or improvised solution to a problem.
- By the 1980s, it began to be associated with unauthorized computer access.
The term 'hack' originated in the 1950s from the word 'hackney', which means to make or build rapidly. It was initially used by computer programmers to describe a clever solution to a programming problem. Over time, the term evolved to also refer to unauthorized access to computer systems.