Anonymous is an international loosely-organized group of hackers that was founded in the early 21st Century. This group is well-known for its high-profile cyber attacks on governments, corporations, and organizations. These attacks are often carried out in response to perceived injustices. Although the group does not have a formal structure or hierarchy, members communicate online through forums such as 8chan and 4chan.
In 2004, Anonymous launched its first attack on the Church of Scientology. These attacks, also known as Project Chanology were launched in response to attempts by the church to suppress a video that featured an interview with Tom Cruise (a prominent member) of the church. Anonymous members launched distributed-denial-of-service attacks (DDoS), against the church’s website. They also organized protests against the organization and boycotts.
Anonymous has been involved in many activities online and offline since then. The group has attacked various governments and organizations, including the Westboro Baptist Church and the government in Tunisia. Anonymous also targets corporations such as Sony and PayPal for various reasons including censorship or mistreatment of employees.
Anonymous is not only involved in high-profile attacks but also has been active in various social and politically important causes. The group supported Occupy and other protests around the globe, including the Arab Spring movement and Black Lives Matter. Anonymous is also involved in the promotion of internet privacy and freedom from information.
Anonymous, despite its controversial actions, has gained a large following online. Many people view Anonymous as a champion for internet freedom and social justice. The group’s lackluster central leadership and use of illegal tactics such as DDoS attacks, website defacements and other hacking have drawn criticism and condemnation.
Although Anonymous is often associated hacking, it’s important to remember that Anonymous is not a traditional hacking group. It is an informal group of people who work together to accomplish a common goal. It has no leadership or structure and members operate in isolation. Authorities have had difficulty tracking and prosecuting members of the group due to its decentralized nature.
Anonymous is complex and multifaceted, with a history of involvement in many activities over the past 20 years. The group has been associated with many high-profile cyberattacks and other controversial acts, but it has also been active in various social and politically related causes online.