(However, one exception is so-called white hat hackers, whom companies hire to break into their devices to find security flaws that need to be fixed.) Hackers may want to steal, alter or delete information in your devices, and they often do so by installing malware (software used for malicious purposes) you might not even know is there. Just as other thieves have malicious intent, hackers usually find their way into devices for negative purposes. What are computer hackers?Ĭomputer hackers are people who break into internet-connected devices such as computers, tablets and smartphones, usually with the intent to steal, change or delete information. A new threat known as computer hacking extended the definition of thievery to include infiltrating your computer, stealing personal information, tricking you into revealing private data, and using that data to steal and extort personal information, such as business secrets, bank account credentials and even people’s identities. Tons of spam started to infiltrate email accounts, and computer viruses wreaked havoc on business networks. The growth of the World Wide Web in the 1990s introduced new possibilities and spawned new industries, but it also brought about new downsides of connectivity. You can protect your mobile devices by turning off Bluetooth when it’s not in use, being mindful of the Wi-Fi networks you connect to and using security applications to improve monitoring and protection.You can protect your computers by using firewalls and antivirus software and by following best practices for computer use.

Hackers are criminals who gain unauthorized access to a network and devices, usually with the intent to steal sensitive data, such as financial information or company secrets.

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