Interconnected computer information systems have become indispensable aspects of modern life. All forms of communication, education, finance, commerce and identity utilize these systems creating a permanent personal presence for all of us within this digital world. Individuals who reveal or threaten to reveal these personal identities for various reasons, are sometimes referred to as hackers who can also form hacker activist groups; also known as hacktivists. One of the most recent and visible of these groups calls itself Anonymous; however, little academic research has been conducted on the group as a whole. The purpose of this study was to discover the greater story of Anonymous. Through qualitative case study analysis of the group and its affiliates' activities, a more thorough description of Anonymous' organization, conduct and portrayal was derived. Anonymous has evolved into a worldwide conscientious purposeful social and political movement concerned with the freedom and access of information. It uses a variety of means to promote free information, sometimes legal protest, sometimes illegal hacking. There are any number of splinter groups who claim affiliation with Anonymous but its decentralized structure makes it difficult to know who is working with or for the goals of the collective. Anonymous has transformed from a physical entity to that of an idea and persona that can be claimed by anyone at any time and that idea is what will ensure its continued presence for years to come. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]