On Getting Hacked And Getting Hacked Off

Hackers And Hacking Really Hacks Me Off!

My watch vibrated; it was 4:00 AM. No, my alarm wasn’t set, and no, I didn’t intend to get up that early. But a would-be hacker into my Facebook account had other plans. The alert, which I can’t find now, said something like, “We detected someone attempting to log into your Facebook account from a new device. Was this you?” I wanted to write back, “Not at 4:00 AM!” Further research revealed that said hacker was somewhere in the vicinity of Argentina. Since I was in South Florida at that moment, clearly, it wasn’t me.

I had to change the password, of course, but what bothered me was how I paused before I did so. My internal dialogue was fierce. 

Do I really HAVE to change my password? It was only one attempt. If I change it, I’ll have to save the new password, log out of all the other devices, and it will take SO much time!  

Blah, blah, blah.

“Discretion is the better part of valor,” it has been said, so I changed the password and secured my account for the foreseeable future. That is until the next hacker comes along and thinks I’m interesting enough to invade my life and steal my identity. 

I hate hackers. Seriously, is that all you have to do with your life is to try and steal others’ information? What, are you incapable of building your own credit, earning your own money, or working in your own business or career? 

Now, this whole situation even has me questioning the modern and chic use of the word “hack.”  

You’ve seen the ads and heard the promises too. 

“Here are my five time-management hacks,” quips one guru (who looks barely out of high school.)

“Included in this program are the nine weight loss hacks that helped me lose 25 lbs. in just two weeks!” says another who is peddling the latest diet fad (and looks emaciated.)

“I’ll reveal in this report seven biohacking secrets that medical professionals don’t want you to know,” promises a stylish 30-something guy wearing a faded tee shirt (who may still live with his parents.)

You get the point. They have a better, faster, and easier way—a shortcut to success, significance, and financial prosperity. 

Just stop already! Nobody likes a hack, and no one wants to get hacked. Much less pay for one.

Doing so will just hack more people off. Believe me, I know.