A hacker snoops and sometimes alters computer programs or systems. Not all hackers are out to cause damage — hacking motives range from curiosity to religious or political zeal. The goal of most amateur hackers is to see how much system control they can get. More experienced hackers are quietly effective — leaving backdoors in order to return and regain access to a server. When access to a system has been gained, a hacker may be able to gain the privileges of an insider. This is a dangerous situation if the defenses are pointed only at external threats. Beware the ubiquitous hacker!
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