[Skullmeat]

I was in a discussion about what I consider to be the true hacker ethos, as opposed to the mainstream idea of what hacking is today. I consider myself to be a true hacker. (Although I honestly prefer the term "modder" or "maker") For me, it's not about exploiting a security flaw, nor is it about the end result. It's about the process of getting there. It's about making something do something it was never meant to do. To expand, update, or adapt a device, from a computer to a kids toy for new applications. Wikipedia sums up the idea well:

The hacker culture is a subculture of individuals who enjoy the intellectual challenge of creatively overcoming limitations of software systems to achieve novel and clever outcomes. The act of engaging in activities (such as programming or other media) in a spirit of playfulness and exploration is termed "hacking". However, the defining characteristic of a hacker is not the activities performed themselves (e.g. programming), but the manner in which it is done.

However, I constantly see, and hear about "crackers." People whose primary focus is malicious and exploit weaknesses in computer systems for profit or self gain. (I'm using the term "cracker" in this context for the purposes of this thread. I'm well aware of, and support finding flaws in the interest of security) It seems that people like me, are slowly dwindling down to zero, and I fear, that it is a lost mentality. Even some of the first hackers, who are closely linked with modern day hacking in popular culture, it was not about making free calls. They could do that, but it was more about exploring the system, to understand and manipulate it in ways we they weren't meant to. A really well done and interesting documentary on the origin of hacking and the early pioneers is "The Secret History of Hacking" and I feel it explains what I consider to be a true hacker. So, is the true hacker a lost mentality?

[DarkMuse]

Hell no! There are vast amounts of hackers out in the world. Just look at the homebrew teams for the wii, wiiu, switch hacking. That's a small example of people who still love to scrap things down to their basics and rework them the way they would like! It's there but societies views on it lean towards the mainstream hacker mentality.

[Inori]

Hell no! There are vast amounts of hackers out in the world. Just look at the homebrew teams for the wii, wiiu, switch hacking. That's a small example of people who still love to scrap things down to their basics and rework them the way they would like! It's there but societies views on it lean towards the mainstream hacker mentality.

I agree with you about the homebrew scene, but it's been denounced to just that. It's no longer called hacking, rather, modding, regardless of what it really is. Personally, I think the whole "tech-literacy movement" with regards to Anonymous, Edward Snowden, North Korea, the NSA, and other factors really warped the general public's perception of what hacking really is.

Additionally, these issues are why I love shows like Mr. Robot so much. Sure, it didn't get everything right, nobody's infallible, but Mr. Robot really gave everybody a proper look at the subculture. Everyone who only picked up on and started paying attention to "hacking" when or after Anonymous was getting big is either too paranoid about the NSA bugging their fucking microwave or ignorant to what the term really means, and pop culture can really help or hurt that perception.

[roger_smith]

I was in a discussion about what I consider to be the true hacker ethos, as opposed to the mainstream idea of what hacking is today. I consider myself to be a true hacker. (Although I honestly prefer the term "modder" or "maker") For me, it's not about exploiting a security flaw, nor is it about the end result. It's about the process of getting there. It's about making something do something it was never meant to do. To expand, update, or adapt a device, from a computer to a kids toy for new applications. Wikipedia sums up the idea well:

The hacker culture is a subculture of individuals who enjoy the intellectual challenge of creatively overcoming limitations of software systems to achieve novel and clever outcomes. The act of engaging in activities (such as programming or other media) in a spirit of playfulness and exploration is termed "hacking". However, the defining characteristic of a hacker is not the activities performed themselves (e.g. programming), but the manner in which it is done.

However, I constantly see, and hear about "crackers." People whose primary focus is malicious and exploit weaknesses in computer systems for profit or self gain. (I'm using the term "cracker" in this context for the purposes of this thread. I'm well aware of, and support finding flaws in the interest of security) It seems that people like me, are slowly dwindling down to zero, and I fear, that it is a lost mentality. Even some of the first hackers, who are closely linked with modern day hacking in popular culture, it was not about making free calls. They could do that, but it was more about exploring the system, to understand and manipulate it in ways we they weren't meant to. A really well done and interesting documentary on the origin of hacking and the early pioneers is "The Secret History of Hacking" and I feel it explains what I consider to be a true hacker. So, is the true hacker a lost mentality?

In places like HackForums, here to some degree, and whatever other Skid row sites, it's hard to find.

In my experience, SL has a decent bit of the traditional hacker crowd; you, myself, Muse, plenty others I can't think of off the top of my head. That's part of what keeps me around, honestly.

I do think those who are more in line w/ hacking in a traditional sense are the few, the proud. I also think it's always kinda been that way though.

[mothered]

For myself, It's all about exploitation- getting Into a system that's "supposed to be" secure. My signature says It all.

I honestly couldn't care less what the result produces. As long as I get In, that's all that matters. I've had VERY sensitive credentials at my disposal (I've saved everything, proof can be provided on request) and could've caused significant loss to the given organization, but I'm not Inclined as such. I'm talking about 2,000+ sites. To answer your question, no. Hackers, namely "true hackers" continue to exist and continue to populate. There'll always be new generations of hackers who strive for perfection (so to speak).

[Dismas]

"Hack" has always been a term applied to describe an innovative solution, to a difficult problem. It has little to do with being "malicious" or morally aligned. If you find a unique solution to a problem that others can't, that's an accomplishment.

[mothered]

"Hack" has always been a term applied to describe an innovative solution, to a difficult problem. It has little to do with being "malicious" or morally aligned.

I wish the majority of the population who perceive the term "hacking" as malicious, would read your statement here.

Sure, It does depend on how a given user utilizes their hacking skills, but by no means Is hacking solely related to malicious Intent.

[pvnk]

I apologize in advanced, but I cringed a lot after skimming multiple parts of this text.

[ncmxracer]

I dont think its a lost mentality. I think the mentality has evolved

[LawDogUSA]

I have said it before and will say it again, weather you realize it or not, you are true Superheros. You can do things with your mind and skills, that alter and change the way they are supposed to be. And for some it's so natural and easy. And there's good and bad, but you guys battle to resolve the issue at hand. Not to mention how much you can help the weak and needy. It's a remarkable talent/skill. Much respect and honor to you all.

PS:. I know it's great for us FNGs to learn, but a place where you Superheros are available, because there is so much need, would be just fantastic.

I have all these medals, awards, etc. But I want to learn the skills to help those that are screwed by these cruel individuals that could use a little tech ass kicking.

But much respect and honor to you for gaining the knowledge and skills.

Thank you


Respectfully Submitted,

G