In Computing, a script kiddie (occasionally script bunny , script kitty or skiddie ) is a derogatory term for inexperienced cracker (computing) who use scripts and programs developed by others for the purpose of compromising computer accounts and files, and for launching attacks on whole computer systems (see denial of service). In general, they do not have the ability to write said programs on their own. Such programs have included WinNuke applications and Back Orifice.

Script kiddies, instead of attacking an individual system, often scan thousands of computers looking for vulnerable targets before initiating an attack. The term is also often used as a derogatory moniker for individuals who do not contribute to the development of new security-related programs, especially exploits, but rather benefit from the work of others.

Script kiddies can be a potential aid to more dangerous types of crackers who can encourage and manipulate them into being more destructive.

The term is a reference to Linux/Unix scripts, which are small simple-to-use applications that can accomplish a specific task with little more input than the target of the attack. To some however the term expresses considerable contempt, being meant to indicate that they are immature (or unable to realise the equality lesson contained in the somewhat loaded term), and only use script (computer programming)s and programs created by other people, in what is merely simple vandalism.

= Script kiddie scene =

From around 1995 on, the widespread use of the Internet in the business and home computer field, and the full disclosure movement s policy of disclosing working exploitation tools has led to an enormous growth of the script kiddie scene.

Script kiddies often act out of boredom, curiosity or a desire to play war on the Internet. There are many organised script kiddie groups, who often meet in anonymous chat channels on Internet Relay Chat servers.

Script kiddies are always looking for new zero day exploit (computer science), or sploitz , which are unknown to the public, and hence particularly effective. Such exploits are leaked from research labs or given to script kiddies by insiders; they are then used to compromise a large number of host computers on the Internet.

One example of the work of a script kiddie was the Kournikova Worm in which millions of Microsoft Outlook users received e-mails with the prospect of viewing a picture of tennis star, Anna Kournikova, in an attachment. This virus was similar to the ILOVEYOU, in that it sent itself to all the people in the address books of the recipients.

= See also =