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20611.More information
Since 2008, the decentralized and inclusive hacktivist group Anonymous has launched hundreds of stand-alone campaigns, primarily targeting government using certain hacking techniques (Coleman, 2020; Steinmetz, 2022). Due to the standardization of both target selection and types of cyberattacks, we used Differential Association theory to understand whether peer association facilitates the learning process of new Anonymous members (known as "Anons") during a hacking campaign. The data derives from IRC conversations during the 2012 Maple Spring Protests, where Anons hacked the Québec provincial government. A thematic content analysis suggests that Anonymous’ consistency stems from the use of pre-established resources that ensure all participants learn similar techniques and motivations that can be applied across all campaigns. Congruent with the tenents of Differential Association theory, our results indicate that peers in the chats sustained the learning process of newcomers, not only transmitting technical skills but also inculcating values and definitions that distinguish legitimate from illegitimate targets. Newcomers are also encouraged to reinforce their approval of such behaviors by promoting Anonymous’ hacks on social media. Together, this online environment can transform novices into proficient hackers, increasing the potential for future campaigns.
Keywords: Cybercrime, Cybercriminalité, digital disobedience, Désobéissance numérique, Apprentissage en ligne, online activism, Communautés virtuelles, virtual communities, Sous-cultures hacktivistes, hacktivist subcultures
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