An Empirical Investigation Of Hacking Behavior

Abstract

Currently, very limited research is available to help researchers and firms understand the behavior of hackers.  As a result, misconceptions about hackers are formed based on lack of understanding about technology and failure in recognizing the differences among hackers.  We use addiction, intrinsic motivation (state), and self-monitoring (trait) theories to explain hacking.   We obtained 62 usable responses from hackers who completed our online research instrument.  Our findings showed that intrinsically motivated hackers were less discouraged by the possibility of being discovered and the rules imposed by regulatory authorities; however, no significant result was reported for rules imposed by the profession.  Individuals with high motivation to hack were found to be less discouraged by all three deterrence measures.  Participants who perceived hacking to be more consistent with their internal cues were less discouraged by the possibility of being discovered and the rules imposed by regulatory authorities; however, no significant difference was found for rules imposed by the profession.  Finally, contrary to our expectation, low self-monitors were more discouraged by all three deterrence measures than high self-monitors.  Additional research is needed to provide insight into this finding.