The term "hacker" can have a positive or negative connotation, depending on the context.
In general, a hacker is someone who is skilled in computers and uses their knowledge to achieve a goal in a way that isn't standard.
Here's a breakdown of the two most common types of hackers:
Black hat hacker: This is the type of hacker most people think of when they hear the word "hacker." Black hat hackers use their skills for malicious purposes, such as stealing data, installing malware, or disrupting computer systems.
White hat hacker: White hat hackers, also known as ethical hackers, use their skills for good. They help organizations improve their security by finding and fixing vulnerabilities in their systems.
There's also a gray area, with gray hat hackers who may use their hacking skills for both good and bad purposes.