We all have security systems in place. Mine is automatically upgraded ever year so I don’t have to worry. Although, Norton isn’t shy about letting me know there are hackers out there, and I need extra security. I say, hack away! More about this later.
First let’s take a look at the definition spectrum for hack – there’s a wide range of meaning. Techopedia.com not only has a definition, they also offer a page long explanation. “To hack, in the context of computer security, is the action of performing activities on a computer system in an unauthorized manner. Computer hacking is considered an infringement of protected data and property and thus constitutes a malicious act.” I knew that in simple terms – to break into computers and networks.
Techopedia’s full explanation for Hack includes the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, but here are some interesting points, as well. “While the term hack has meant different things over time, it almost always has a negative connotation from the perspective of a non-technical person. This is despite the fact that many hackers aren't in it to do anything malicious. Some hack for the fun and challenge of it, while others do it in a professional fashion to assist organizations improve their IT security.
In addition, “it is important to differentiate between the security definition of this term and the definition in the context of programming, where hack can mean a great developer, or even an inelegant solution to a problem.” So the definition is broad ranging, and it all depends on how you use it. The more I read, it appears computer hacking encompasses a vast underworld that I didn’t realize existed. There are further tech definitions for those specializing in hacking, such as hacktivism, car hacking, gummy bear hack, thing hacking, pharma hack, hackerazzi, and the list goes on.
All of this to say, we need to hack our own personal security systems - those that guard our private thoughts and emotions. We need to inelegantly dig in and examine what is being held “sacred” or secret from the world, and ask why. What bank of emotions are we protecting? What ideals are we in fear of tarnishing with exposure? Our personal security systems are so well coded and crafted that we often don’t know they are in place. Start to hack a little and you’ll see.
I made a vow to myself several years ago to be genuinely honest with sharing my perspective. This included my family, my business, and myself. My intent would be to never purposely hurt someone, but to be true to my perspective. This was not set as a project of some kind to later blog about; it was born from a genuine desire to live with more depth and meaning. The process is much more complex than I thought it would be. It has become a challenge and somewhat of an adventure. I have a tendency to guard and hedge more often than I’d like to admit. But, at least now I know I’m securing something and can question myself later. Honest is the key word. It is important to know first what you think and feel, and why. The why is important, too, because you can be locked into a societal norm that doesn’t ring true to your perspective. This is just the tip of the iceberg, and too much to cover in a blog post. There’s an underworld here, too, or probably better stated for my purposes, an inner world.
Interestingly, I found there are white hat hackers, blue, black, and grey and other categories and statuses. I’m targeting the elite hacker status.
Join me, and hack away!
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