Definition: Hacking is an attempt to exploit a computer system or a private network inside a computer. Simply put, it is the unauthorised access to or control over computer network security systems for some illicit purpose.
Description: To better describe hacking, one needs to first understand hackers. One can easily assume them to be intelligent and highly skilled in computers. In fact, breaking a security system requires more intelligence and expertise than actually creating one. There are no hard and fast rules whereby we can categorize hackers into neat compartments. However, in general computer parlance, we call them white hats, black hats and grey hats. White hat professionals hack to check their own security systems to make it more hack-proof. In most cases, they are part of the same organisation. Black hat hackers hack to take control over the system for personal gains. They can destroy, steal or even prevent authorized users from accessing the system. They do this by finding loopholes and weaknesses in the system. Some computer experts call them crackers instead of hackers. Grey hat hackers comprise curious people who have just about enough computer language skills to enable them to hack a system to locate potential loopholes in the network security system. Grey hats differ from black hats in the sense that the former notify the admin of the network system about the weaknesses discovered in the system, whereas the latter is only looking for personal gains. All kinds of hacking are considered illegal barring the work done by white hat hackers.
Crypto hacking thefts double to $1.4 bln in first half, say researchersThe amount of cryptocurrency stolen in hacks globally more than doubled in the first six months of 2024 from a year earlier, driven by a small number of large attacks and rising crypto prices, blockchain researchers TRM Labs said on Friday.
EVM source code should never be disclosed: SCSupreme Court on Wednesday made it clear that EVM source codes "should never be disclosed" as the same can be misused. A bench comprising justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta made the verbal observation during the resumed hearing of a batch of pleas seeking directions to tally voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips with votes cast through EVMs during elections.
Safeguarding Your Smart Car: How to secure your connected car from cybersecurity threatsIn today's tech-driven era, smart cars are revolutionizing transportation with advanced features aimed at enhancing safety and connectivity. However, this integration of digital systems brings forth cybersecurity concerns, threatening vehicle and occupant safety. Essential strategies include software updates, strong passwords, secure Wi-Fi, and cautious usage of third-party devices.
Britain says China hacked electoral watchdog, targeted lawmaker emailsIn response to the attempted hack in 2021 of emails belonging to British politicians "prominent in calling out the malign activity of China", Britain imposed sanctions on two people and one company linked to state-backed Chinese hacking group APT31, the Foreign Office said in a statement.
China to increase protections against hacking for key industriesChina's MIIT plan aims to improve data security, contain major risks by 2026. Entities replace Western-made hardware and software. Measures include drills simulating ransomware attacks. 45,000 companies, top 10% in every province, receive training and cultivate data security talents.
Chinese hackers have stolen 100 GB of immigration data from India, leaked papers showLeaked documents reveal extensive cyber intrusions by Chinese state-linked hacking group. Implications raise concerns about scale and persistence of cyber threats from China and their impact on global cybersecurity. Targets include foreign governments, companies, infrastructure. iSoon, a Shanghai-based firm, plays a significant role in Chinese hacking operations.
Prince Harry obtains payment in phone hacking case, says he will continue to 'tame' the mediaHarry's attorney, David Sherborne, said at a court hearing that Mirror Group Newspapers had agreed to pay all of the prince's legal costs, plus "substantial" damages, and would make an interim payment of 400,000 pounds ($505,000) within 14 days. The final tab will be assessed later.