hacktivism

American  

[hak-tuh-viz-uhm] / ˈhæk təˌvɪz əm /

Or hactivism

noun

Computers.

1. the practice of gaining unauthorized access to a computer system and carrying out various disruptive actions as a means of achieving political or social goals.

   In this form of hacktivism, the hacker tries to alter or deface a government website.

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Other Word Forms

• hacktivist
  noun
• hactivist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of hacktivism

1995–2000; hack ¹ (in the computer sense) + (ac)tivism

Example Sentences

So far, the attacks have caused disruption and embarrassment, but cyber-experts have become increasingly concerned by the explosion of hacktivism since the invasion.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2022

“It is the first time that states have openly called for citizens and volunteers to cyberattack another state,” said Gabriella Coleman, a Harvard anthropology professor who has charted the rise of hacktivism.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 28, 2022

Earlier waves of hacktivism, notably by the amorphous collective known as Anonymous in the early 2010s, largely faded away under law enforcement pressure.

From Reuters • Mar. 25, 2021

“Mr. Robot” returns for a second season of hacktivism, along with a new recap show.

From New York Times • Jul. 13, 2016

What if hacktivism had the potential to erode traditional notions of national ideology?

From Washington Post • Apr. 20, 2012