If you’re looking for gifts that will appeal to someone interested in cybersecurity or programming, the hunt can be a challenge. We’ve rounded up our picks for the top gift options, including books for study or entertainment, high-tech kits, courses, and novelty items for your loved one to enjoy. Here are interesting, odd, and fun gift options for the hacker in your life. Must read:
The best cheap tech gifts for under $100The best cheap tech gifts under $75The best cheap tech gifts under $50The best cheap tech gifts under $25
The best hacker gift ideas
Below are the best hacker gift ideas we’ve found for 2023.
Other gifts for hackers to consider
Perlroth, a cybersecurity reporter, explores the role of the US in the digital arms race and includes tales of zero-day exploitation, hacker-for-hire mercenaries, and even how the country’s own specialists were duped into working against them. The Raspberry Pi is a single-board, Linux-based computer. There are general-purpose pins and components for learning everything from programming skills to creating home automation controls. When it comes to security, users could explore network scanning, ad blocking, container creation, and more. ExpressVPN remains at the top of our best VPNs list and for good reason. It supports a generous number of platforms, including Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android, has over 160 server locations in 94 countries, and does not collect connection or activity logs. In fact, Mitnick is a convicted hacker who was once on the FBI’s Most Wanted list but has become an acclaimed security consultant and chief hacking officer of the security training company KnowBe4. He explores modern surveillance methods and how we can limit the impact on our privacy and security. At the time of writing, the cabled version is in stock. Powered by USB and suitable for Linux and Windows machines, the extender can be used to enhance your range when using network sniffing tools, such as those on Kali Linux. Monitor mode, a key feature for monitoring network traffic, is supported. This device is available together with AC Tactical, containing 2.4 & 5GHz support via a Wi-Fi adapter, a carry case, a keychain, and skins. You can also select add-ons, including Kismet modules and extra antennas. There are many entry-level courses (as well as free options) out there, but we recommend starting with CompTIA’s A+ or Network+. Network+, in particular, might not seem like the right choice on the surface, but today’s cybersecurity professionals must have a thorough understanding of networking fundamentals to understand defense. However, not every gift has to have a hands-on educational purpose in mind, so we’ve also included interesting reads on the industry. This could include a computer network, old tech equipment, or a website’s backend control system. Hacking, in itself, doesn’t automatically mean unauthorized entry. There are companies out there that ask for ethical hackers to test their software for weaknesses and will reward them financially for their findings. It is only when a hacker uses their skills for unauthorized and criminal purposes, theft, or destruction that it becomes illegal. This could include breaking into a network to deploy malware or stealing confidential information. Job roles include penetration testers who try to find weaknesses in software and networks; bug bounty hunters who privately disclose vulnerabilities to companies; consultants, network defense experts, OSINT intelligence and investigation experts, and more. Also: The 6 best ethical hacking certifications: Hone your skills But gifts can come in all shapes and sizes, so we also rounded up the best gifts by category, price, and retailer – plus, the hottest tech toys for kids in 2023. Gifts by category
Delight DIYers with these interesting gifts that make and fix thingsWhat do you get for the gamer who has everything?Tech-themed gift cards for gadget loversOdd and interesting gift ideas for the hobbyist hacker in your lifeThe best laptops to giftThe best phones to gift (even on a budget)Cooking gift guide: These smart kitchen tools went TikTok viralTablet gift guide: iPads aren’t the only optionUseful smart home gifts, from plugs to thermostatsTravel gift guide: Luggage, Liquid IV, and moreTV gift guide: Gorgeous TVs for the binge-watcher in your lifeThe best fitness gifts: Workout mirror, Whoop, and moreCreative gifts for live streamersGift ideas for coffee lovers (besides a Starbucks gift card)
Gifts by price
The best cheap tech gifts under $100The best cheap tech gifts under $75The best cheap tech gifts under $50The best cheap tech gifts under $25
Gifts by retailer Gifts for kids
