hacking

In a legal context, hacking is a term for utilizing an unconventional or illicit means to gain unauthorized access to a digital device, computer system, or network. Hacking is a federal crime. The National Coordinator for Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience is responsible for protecting Americans from cyber threats originating domestically or abroad.

See also: Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (“CFAA”) - 18 U.S. Code § 1030 - Fraud and related activity in connection with computers

[Last updated in July of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team]