Should we be worried about ‘hacktivism’? This article offers a brief analysis of a concept that was the brainchild of an individual who, in just a few weeks, mobilised an international network of more than 11,000 militants prepared to take action in both the real and virtual worlds. With a mix of conviction, manipulation and opportunism, it is clear that individuals can influence people to strike at and destroy a target, while others will adopt a timely ‘just cause’ to embark upon illicit or even criminal activities.