The professionalisation paths of hackers in IT security: The sociology of a divided identity

Abstract

This article analyses the professionalisation paths pursued by hackers. More specifically, it focuses on the group of those who became socialised as enthusiastic fans of security between 1995 and 2002. The analysis of paths shows that there are four professional routes: integration as an employee, opting to be independent, the path of fraud and parallel remuneration under a masked identity. These paths progressively reflect the procedures for building a divided identity. Either the hacker transforms himself into a security professional through a change of mentality. Or he develops a split identity, by fragmenting his professional identity. Finally, the article highlights two key parameters explaining the orientation towards one or other of these two forms of divided identity: the internalisation of a code of professional practice, a professional ethic and moderation of strategies to build a media reputation.