13 Cybersecurity - Who are the bad guys?

1. Script Kiddies
Script kiddies are typically unsophisticated hackers who rely on pre-built scripts and tools developed by others. They often lack the expertise to create their own hacking tools and are more interested in causing chaos for personal gratification rather than achieving complex goals.
2. Technologically Savvy Youth
Unlike script kiddies, some young hackers are highly skilled. Historically, these youthful attackers made headlines, especially during the early days of the internet. However, as hacking has become more financially rewarding, nation-states and organized criminals have overshadowed this group, leading to a decline in youthful, curiosity-driven attacks.
3. Terrorists and Rogue Groups
Terrorist organizations understand the value of cyberattacks and are actively developing their own capabilities. Although they are primarily focused on recruitment and propaganda, their potential for executing large-scale digital attacks is a growing concern.
4. Nation-States
Governments invest heavily in cyber-operations, whether for espionage, military objectives, or influencing public opinion. High-profile examples include allegations of Russian interference in U.S. elections, but most nation-state hacking goes unnoticed. These attacks often blur the lines between state-sponsored operations and corporate espionage, as some governments directly control key industries and use cyberattacks to advance their interests.
5. Corporate Spies
Corporate espionage has been around for as long as businesses have competed with one another, but the digital age has provided new avenues for illicit activity. Whether through hacking employees’ personal devices or breaking into corporate networks, unscrupulous businesses sometimes use hacking to steal intellectual property or gain a competitive edge.
6. Criminals
Criminal hackers come in many forms, from those looking to steal money through direct attacks on banking systems to those focused on stealing valuable data they can sell. Criminals have evolved from lone wolves to well-organized groups that operate like traditional businesses, seeking the greatest financial reward for the least amount of risk.
7. Hacktivists
Hacktivists are politically or socially motivated hackers who use their skills to disrupt or bring attention to causes. They may target government websites, corporations, or any other organization they feel is acting unjustly. Their goal is often to promote their message, whether by leaking sensitive information or causing financial damage to their targets.