What does the Bible say about hacking?

Answer

Hacking is an unauthorized intrusion into a computer or a network. Hackers illegally bypass a computer’s security features to achieve a goal that differs from the original purpose of the system. Many technologically savvy students become hackers and use hacking as a form of 21st-century vandalism. They enjoy the challenge of testing its feasibility. Other hackers have more malicious motives, utilizing their hacking skills to steal money, manipulate transportation systems, and uncover government secrets. Since computers were unheard of in ancient times, does the Bible address anything relevant to hacking?

Hacking is a digital form of breaking and entering. Instead of trespassing a home or business, hackers intrude into computer systems. Computers contain private data, vital statistics, and sensitive information, making it a severe violation of privacy and decency to hack into someone’s computer. It also goes against the Golden Rule, which states, “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you” «Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. », (Matthew 7:12). We all have aspects of our lives that are not meant for public scrutiny. Since we wouldn’t want our privacy invaded, we should never invade someone else’s privacy.

Hacking also violates God’s command against theft (Exodus 20:16;Deuteronomy 19:11). Hackers frequently steal personal information and exploit it for their own selfish purposes. Unless hacking is carried out by law enforcement in the pursuit of justice, it is indefensible. Hacking is seldom done for the benefit of the hacked individual. Hacking contradicts the principle of Philippians 2:3, which states, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Instead, in humility value others above yourselves.” If we prioritize others above ourselves, we would never infiltrate their computer systems.

There are instances when hacking may be essential to save lives or property. At times, only hackers can apprehend other hackers, so law enforcement employs the hacking abilities of technologically skilled individuals to thwart hackers with malicious intentions. Hackers who breach banks, government agencies, or credit card companies must be halted before significant financial damage is inflicted. National security can also be jeopardized when hackers breach top-secret documents. Nevertheless, hackers who are willing to utilize their expertise for the betterment of others can identify how and where the breach occurred and prevent it promptly. When the hacking skills are employed to safeguard and assist, society benefits. When they are exploited for self-serving, deceitful motives, the outcome is sinful.