What term refers to unauthorized intrusions into a computer or network system?

• A. Hacking
• B. Phishing
• C. Malware
• D. Spoofing

Answer: (A)

Hacking refers to unauthorized intrusions into a computer or network system. It describes the act of bypassing security measures to gain access—often to steal, modify, or disrupt data and resources. This focus on breaking into systems is what sets hacking apart from the other terms. Phishing uses deceit to trick people into revealing credentials, malware is software designed to cause harm or steal information, and spoofing involves impersonating someone or something to mislead others. In some contexts, hacking can be authorized (ethical hacking or penetration testing) to assess and improve security, but the term itself centers on illicit access.