Computer Networks - II — Question 25

Hacking is the unauthorized access of a computer system and networks.

Cracking refers to breaking into secure systems with the purpose of stealing and corrupting data.

Cracking and hacking both refer to the unauthorized access of a computer system. They just have different intentions behind them. Cracking is done with malicious intentions whereas hacking is done for gaining knowledge about computer systems and possibly using this knowledge to find lack in security or for playful pranks.