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"Cracker" Definition, About Internet for Beginners

By Paul Gil, About.com

Definition: A "Cracker" is a computer user who attempts to break into copyrighted software or a network computer system. Sometimes this is done with intent of releasing the software so it can be used without paying royalties. Other times, cracking is to expose a system's security flaws. For the most part, crackers do their craft with the intent to steal confidential data, acquire free software, or perform malicious destruction of files.
Also Known As: "Software Hacker"
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