hacktivism

Also known as: hactivism

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 20, 2026

Quick Summary

Hacktivism is a form of computer hacking used to advance political or social causes. It involves using digital tools, such as disrupting websites or networks, to promote activism. The term is a blend of "hack" and "activism" and first appeared in 1992.1

Hacktivists can range from individuals to organized groups. While hacking is often associated with illegal activities, hacktivism specifically aims to achieve social or political goals. This can include actions like defacing government websites with anti-war messages or campaigning for causes like WikiLeaks or Occupy Wall Street. Hacktivism highlights the intersection of technology and social movements, where digital actions are employed to influence public discourse and policy.12

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Anonymous
…Anonymous largely abandoned trolling for hacktivism (that is, politically motivated hacking), and many other operations followed. Among the group’s targets since 2008 have been credit card companies, white supremacist organizations, child pornography sites, copyright protection agencies, and multiple governments. Causes that Anonymous has supported include WikiLeaks, Occupy Wall Street, the…
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…Anonymous largely abandoned trolling for hacktivism (that is, politically motivated hacking), and many other operations followed. Among the group’s targets since 2008 have been credit card companies, white supremacist organizations, child pornography sites, copyright protection agencies, and multiple governments. Causes that Anonymous has supported include WikiLeaks, Occupy Wall Street, the…
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cyberculture
Cyberactivism
…first informational guerrilla movement, used hacktivism, or manipulating computer systems or networks to promote a political ideology or social change.
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…first informational guerrilla movement, used hacktivism, or manipulating computer systems or networks to promote a political ideology or social change.
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doxing
…with online activism or “hacktivism.”
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…with online activism or “hacktivism.”
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digital activism
campaigning, virtual sit-ins, and “hacktivism” (disrupting Web sites).
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campaigning, virtual sit-ins, and “hacktivism” (disrupting Web sites).
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