What is the term for the unauthorized access or control of a computing device or program?

The term for the unauthorized access or control of a computing device or program is hacking. Hacking refers to the act of exploiting vulnerabilities in software systems or networks to gain unauthorized access to data or functionalities. It can occur through various methods, including exploiting security flaws, using social engineering tactics, or employing malicious software designed to bypass security measures.

In the context of cybersecurity, hacking is often associated with both ethical hacking, which is performed by security professionals to identify and fix vulnerabilities, and malicious hacking, which is done with harmful intent, such as stealing data or disrupting services. Understanding hacking is crucial for developing robust security measures and protecting systems from potential threats.

While phishing refers to tricking individuals into providing sensitive information by disguising as trustworthy entities, spamming involves sending unsolicited messages, usually for advertising purposes. Malware is a broader term that encompasses malicious software designed to harm or exploit systems but does not specifically denote the act of unauthorized access itself. Each of these terms represents different aspects of computer security and threats, but hacking is specifically defined by the unauthorized control it implies.