Computer Crime The term hacker used to mean a person with lots of computer smarts, but the term has taken on a more sinister meaning due to true computer criminals. However, most times hackers do not try to steal your money or land. But they create fake accounts and destroy or change files. They think it's funny to mess up your e-mail. Or they want to show off or bug people they don't like. They have invaded Websites and put dumb jokes on them. They think of their activities as mere pranks.