Hacking: meaning, definitions and examples

When referring to unauthorized access or manipulation of computer systems, often by individuals working alone. Can sometimes be used in a non-malicious context like ethical hacking.

• He got into trouble for hacking his school's database
• The company hired an expert to do some ethical hacking to find security weaknesses

Refers to deliberate and malicious attempts to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems or networks, often by groups or organizations.

• The cyber attack crippled the hospital's computer systems
• Governments are taking measures to prevent potential cyber attacks

Emphasizes unauthorized entry into a protected area, often used in both physical and digital security contexts.

• The intrusion was detected by the network security system
• She felt her privacy was violated by the intrusions

Used when there is a break in security, such as unauthorized access to data or systems, often involving sensitive or protected information.

• There was a data breach at the bank that exposed customer information
• The security breach was caused by weak passwords

Hacking is used when referring to the unauthorized access to computer systems, usually with malicious intent. It can also refer to creative problem-solving in programming.

• The company improved its security measures to prevent hacking attempts.
• She spent the weekend hacking together a new feature for the app.

Manipulation refers to controlling or influencing someone or something cleverly or unscrupulously. It often implies deceit or unfair tactics.

• The politician was skilled in the manipulation of public opinion.
• She learned how to recognize and avoid emotional manipulation in relationships.

Exploitation is used when discussing the unfair use of someone or something for one's own advantage, often harming the victim. It has a negative connotation.

• The documentary exposed the exploitation of workers in the garment industry.
• He was accused of exploitation for making his employees work overtime without extra pay.

Tinkering is used when someone is making small, often experimental adjustments or repairs, usually in a hobbyist context. It has a neutral or positive connotation.

• He spent the afternoon tinkering with his old car in the garage.
• She enjoys tinkering with electronics to see how they work.

Used to describe the act of gaining unauthorized access to computer systems or networks. It's often used in a general context and can have negative connotations.

• She was caught hacking into government databases.
• Hacking can lead to serious security issues.

Refers to an incident where data, networks, or systems are accessed without permission. It is often used in the context of cybersecurity and data protection.

• The company suffered a major data breach, exposing customer information.
• Recent breaches have led to stricter security measures.

Often used to describe the process of finding and exploiting vulnerabilities to bypass security measures, such as password cracking. It can also refer to overcoming copy protection in software.

• The team managed to crack the encryption in record time.
• He was arrested for cracking several high-profile systems.

Typically used in a broader context to describe physically or digitally entering a space without permission. It can refer to both cyber activities and physical trespassing.

• Someone tried to break into my house last night.
• Hackers attempted to break into the university’s server.