An entity composed of cables and networks, communicated though data and digital bound media, hactivism, a method, a tool. Hacktivism a new engine for thinking and a formidable tool for the modern-day activist; as this medium effectively grasps the attention of social media. Sadly, the side effects of activism, nay; hacktivism, are that often denizens and the other crawls of life that thrive off the digital age are left with the feeling of paranoia, as cyber policies strengthen on a world wise scale, and march on their uncharted utopia. Hactivists demands turn unmet, and their anonmimity begins to lack, as credibility for what was once stood for, is traces removed, and forgotten.
Hampson, N. C. (2012). Boston College International and Comparative Law Review.Hacktivism: A New Breed of Protest in a Networked World , (2), 511-542.
Provided source discusses in depth the term hacktivism and defines it as a nonviolent use for political ends of "illegal or legally ambiguous digital tools"; as well as the general break down of what is considered hacking/hactivism. The journal moves on to argue about social moments in popular protests that are integral parts of twenty first century society; Groups such as anonymous, etc. This leads to a discussion about cyber warfare, waged by hackers on behalf of state and not-state actors(governments utilizing hacking, etc). Hacktivism tends to be motivated by political concerns that are least partly focused on offline issues, its engaged with primarily with communicated, not destructive goals.
Denning, D. (2001). Activism, Hacktivism, and cyberterrorism: The internet as a tool for influencing foreign policy. Networks and Netwars: The Future of Terror, Crime, and Militancy, 239-241. Retrieved from
This source describes a weapon, a tool; Hactivism. As a powerful means of attack for activism; particularly when combined with communicative social media, va broadcasting, print/posters, and mass-meet ups. A later discussion talks about how those whom engage in hackitivsm are less likely to change foreign policy, than those who employ disruptive means. How hackers, or hactivists feel a high sense of control, as they can tap into government computers and get media attention; but this doesn't always lead to successful change in policy. Some results are more likely to be strengthen by cyber defense policies internationally, rather than accommodate the needs of those whom acted.
