posted on Mar, 30 2004 @ 01:52 AM
Just because it's easy to do doesn't mean it's not a hack.
There's lots of definitions af hacking or a hacker, but none of them say the hacker is smart or gifted. Hacking is usually gaining unauthorized
access to systems. So the term "Hacker" does not mean anything other then they hack.
An internet search will quickly tell you what sites, to go to to get tools & scripts. What newsgroups to read etc. In a short time anyone over 10 can
learn how to hack. Even the so called gifted hackers are just people who learn enough about the systems to understand the vunerabilities and exploit
them. Using a built in macro or creating a simple script to do damage doesn't take much research or talent.
While there are definately some smart hackers (PGM) most of the smart & gifted folks create systems & software tha
t not only does what you want, but is less susceptible to hackers and they make a decent living doing it.
I think the reason for this myth that hackers are smart is when computers were a new thing hacking took quite a bit of knowledge and most were self
taught without the help of books, websites & ready made hacking tools. Then there's the unrealistic Hollywood movies where hackers take over the
world with a 2400 baud modem.
Proving that it takes one match to burn an entire forest, by becoming an arsonist does not make one a genious.
While you might call a burgler who uses a lock pick smarter than one who breaks a window they're both burglers & they both can do the same
damage.
[Edited on 30-3-2004 by outsider]