hackers

Hackers

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The term hacker has a double meaning within the field of computing. A hacker can be an expert computer programmer who creates complex software and hard ware. These hackers are experts in the field of computing and have achieved a certain elite status within their field. The other commonly known meaning of the word is someone who breaks into computer security networks for his own purpose.

They might engage in any of the following activities:

Vandalism—Destruction or digital defacement of a computer or its data for destruction’s sake. Sometimes this is ego-driven. They break in and leave their mark to show they’ve been there.
Hacktivism—A form of vandalism or electronic civil disobedience with a political agenda. Usually hacktivists have altruistic motives.
Theft—Gaining access to intellectual or proprietary technology or information, sometimes for resale.
Hijacking—Many of the financially motivated hackers are interested in using viruses and Trojan horses to hijack your computer so they can remotely control it for their own purposes.
Identity theft—Electronic theft of personal information that can be used to steal financial resources from an individual or corporation.
Terrorism—Some experts believe that terrorists will eventually launch an attack using hacking techniques.

How to Stop Hackers and Keep Your Computer Secure

Many hackers will break into your system by taking advantage of "security holes" in your Windows operating system.

Even though updating Windows regularly will help stop some security breaches, it won't stop everyone. To fully protect your computer you need to install a "firewall". A firewall, when combined with a good anti-virus program helps stop unauthorized access on your computer and prevents virus infections.

McAffee, BlackICE, Sygate, Norton and Zone Alarm all offer excellent software firewalls. You can buy them on the internet or at your local office supply store