Hackers and individual variables

While prior research has compared hackers to non-hackers, fewer studies have examined heterogeneity among hackers, particularly behavioural involvement across black hat, grey hat, and white hat hacking. Using the same theoretical framework - self-control theory, personality models (Big Five and Dark Triad), and behavioural motivations - we (a) compare hackers and non-hackers and (b) examine how these factors relate to distinct hacking behaviour domains. Using survey data from 590 participants, results show that hackers (vs. non-hackers), exhibit lower self-control and agreeableness, and higher levels of neuroticism, psychopathy, and machiavellianism. At the behavioural-domain level, black-hat involvement is associated with lower self-control and higher psychopathy and Machiavellianism, and with stronger endorsement of self-oriented motivations (e.g., sensation-seeking and revenge). White-hat involvement is positively associated with Machiavellianism and negatively with openness to experience, and is linked to motivations related to profit, protection, and helping others. Grey-hat involvement shows a positive association with Machiavellianism and a negative association with agreeableness. Findings are theoretically discussed and highlight implications for identifying behavioural risk profiles and tailoring prevention and intervention strategies in digital contexts.