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Who are the most notorious hackers and how have they impacted information security globally?

Corwin Shiels

Hey there!

When it comes to notorious hackers, there have been many over the years who have impacted information security globally. One of the most famous is Kevin Mitnick, who became known as the "most wanted" hacker in the United States in the 1990s. Mitnick gained access to sensitive information from companies like IBM and Sun Microsystems, and was eventually caught and served five years in prison.

Another notable hacker is Gary McKinnon, a British hacker who infiltrated sensitive U.S. military and NASA computer systems in the early 2000s. McKinnon claimed he was searching for evidence of UFOs and extraterrestrial life. His actions caused considerable damage to the affected systems.

The hacker collective Anonymous has also made a significant impact on global information security. The group has carried out a number of high-profile attacks on government and corporate networks, including the 2011 attack on security firm HBGary Federal. Anonymous has also been known to leak sensitive data, such as the personal information of members of the Ku Klux Klan in 2015.

Perhaps one of the most impactful hackers in recent years is Edward Snowden. A former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor, Snowden exposed the government's mass surveillance program in 2013. His leak shed light on the extent of the government's monitoring of civilians' online activities, and sparked a global conversation about privacy and security in the digital age.

Overall, these hackers and others like them have made a significant impact on information security and spurred important discussions about the role of technology in our lives. While some may view them as criminals, others see them as whistleblowers or activists fighting for greater transparency and freedom online.

Hope this helps answer your question!