In the world of hacking and digital activism, few names are as recognized as Anonymous. This loosely organized group of hacktivists has been making headlines for over a decade. From taking on governments and corporations to standing up for free speech and human rights, Anonymous has always been a symbol of digital rebellion. But in 2025, people are wondering: Is Anonymous still active? Let’s explore where Anonymous stands today, what they’ve been up to recently, and whether they still matter in the digital age.
A Brief History of Anonymous
To understand the present, we must look at the past. Anonymous first came into public view in the early 2000s, born out of online forums like 4chan. What started as internet pranks evolved into serious cyber campaigns. They targeted Scientology, protested against internet censorship (like SOPA and PIPA), and supported movements like Occupy Wall Street. Over the years, Anonymous became known for its iconic Guy Fawkes mask and the motto: “We are Anonymous. We are Legion. We do not forgive. We do not forget. Expect us.”
But since around 2017, activity from the group seemed to slow down. Many people believed Anonymous had gone quiet or disappeared entirely.
A Digital Comeback: 2020 and Beyond
Everything changed in 2020. Amid global protests over police brutality and injustice, Anonymous made a powerful return. They released videos, hacked police department websites, and supported social justice movements. The world was reminded that Anonymous wasn’t gone—they were just waiting for the right moment. From that point forward, Anonymous slowly became more visible again. They commented on world events, exposed shady practices, and launched cyber-attacks in support of human rights. In 2022 and 2023, they made headlines for targeting Russian government websites during the war in Ukraine. So, what about now?
Yes, Anonymous Is Still Active in 2025
The short answer: Yes, Anonymous is still active in 2025.
But they don’t work like traditional organizations. There are no membership forms, no leaders, no official accounts. Anyone can act in the name of Anonymous—as long as they follow the group’s core values: fighting for truth, justice, privacy, and freedom. In 2025, Anonymous continues to speak out against government corruption, corporate greed, censorship, and surveillance. They use social media, video messages, and hacking operations to get their message out. Recent reports and online activity show that Anonymous has:
-
Targeted authoritarian regimes.
-
Exposed government surveillance tools.
-
Supported protests in different parts of the world.
-
Shared tips for staying safe and anonymous online.
In a time when privacy is under constant threat, Anonymous remains a digital voice of resistance.
How Do They Stay Relevant?
You might wonder: In an age of advanced cybersecurity and AI monitoring, how can a group like Anonymous still exist?
Here’s how they manage to stay relevant:
1. Decentralization
There is no headquarters. No leader. Anonymous thrives on being decentralized. Anyone, anywhere, can carry out an operation in the group’s name. This makes them hard to track and impossible to shut down completely.
2. Anonymity Tools
Hacktivists use VPNs, encrypted messaging apps, the Tor network, and other tools to hide their identities. Many members have a deep understanding of cybersecurity and know how to cover their tracks.
3. Adapting to Change
Technology changes fast, and Anonymous adapts with it. They’ve embraced blockchain, deep web communication, and even AI to carry out operations. This makes them more flexible than ever.
What Causes Do They Support in 2025?
Anonymous doesn’t support just any cause. They focus on issues where power is abused, rights are taken away, or people are silenced. In 2025, some of the causes they’ve supported include:
-
Freedom of speech: Fighting against censorship laws and internet blackouts in authoritarian countries.
-
Environmental justice: Targeting companies that pollute with impunity.
-
Digital privacy: Exposing surveillance programs and helping people secure their online presence.
-
Human rights: Supporting oppressed communities and protest movements worldwide.
Anonymous tends to act when governments or corporations cross ethical lines. That’s when you see their trademark videos, often beginning with “Greetings, citizens of the world…”
Critics and Controversies
Of course, not everyone supports Anonymous. Some critics say they create chaos, break laws, or go too far. Others argue that because anyone can claim to be Anonymous, there’s no control over the group’s actions. And it’s true—sometimes people have used the Anonymous name for personal gain or to settle scores. That’s the risk of being a completely open movement. Still, many believe the group has a positive impact by holding powerful people accountable when no one else will.
How to Know It’s Really Anonymous
One common issue in 2025 is fake claims. With so many online impersonators, how do you know if a message or attack is really from Anonymous?
Here are some signs:
-
The message usually appears on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Telegram, or YouTube from long-established Anonymous-related accounts.
-
It carries a clear ethical message, not personal or hateful.
-
There’s often a well-edited video with a voiceover and subtitles.
-
The group typically signs off with their famous lines and the Guy Fawkes symbol.
Still, even seasoned journalists sometimes struggle to confirm whether a particular operation truly came from the “core” Anonymous community—if there even is such a thing.
Will Anonymous Ever Go Away?
It’s unlikely. Anonymous has become more than a group. It’s an idea. As long as there is injustice, censorship, or abuse of power, there will always be someone inspired to stand up—often behind a mask. In 2025, Anonymous remains a symbol of digital protest, online rebellion, and grassroots power. They may not always be loud, but they are definitely still watching.
Final Thoughts
So, is Anonymous still active in 2025? Absolutely. They’ve evolved, adapted, and re-emerged when the world needed them most. Their decentralized nature makes them hard to stop, and their passion for justice keeps them going. Whether you support their methods or not, one thing is clear: Anonymous still has a role to play in the digital world. In an age of constant surveillance and growing inequality, their message echoes louder than ever:
“We are Anonymous. We are Legion. We do not forgive. We do not forget. Expect us.”
