News and Analysis

Attitudes towards unwritten rules within criminal cyber circles attacking individuals and organisations are shifting, with younger, competitive hackers entering the scene. Traditionally, hackers respected ethics that included not targeting hospitals and critical infrastructures, and only exploiting a specific vulnerability once. Evolving technology and easy access to information have allowed an influx of younger hackers to enter the community, focusing on profits regardless of risk. They prioritize taking credit for their activities, with some hackers promoting their exploits through the media, creating a competitive atmosphere and potentially attracting law enforcement attention.