A Hacktivist is someone who uses a technology systems or networks maliciously to promote a political agenda or social change. For example, a hacker might organize a Denial of Service attack against a company that they view is not being socially or politically responsible, resulting in that company’s website or computer systems going offline.
What differentiates between an Organized Crime and Hacktivist attack is usually whether a ransom payment is requested. Hacktivists are seeking social or political change while Organized Crime are typically only after money.
Related Terms: Insider Threat, Nation State Hackers, Organized Crime, Script Kiddie
Related Reading: Anonymous Takes down Atlanta Police Website after Fatal Shooting
