The hacktivist collective known as Anonymous has carried out a series of high-profile digital operations over the years, targeting governments, corporations, and institutions it views as oppressive, corrupt, or unjust. Operating without a formal structure or leadership, Anonymous uses its influence and cyber capabilities to expose wrongdoing, advocate for internet freedom, and support social justice. Here’s a closer look at some of their most iconic missions.
Operation Payback (2010)
What began as a retaliation against copyright enforcement groups quickly escalated into a global campaign for internet freedom. Initially targeting the MPAA and RIAA, Anonymous soon expanded its efforts in support of WikiLeaks, launching DDoS attacks against Visa, MasterCard, and PayPal after they cut financial ties with the whistleblowing site. The operation brought massive attention to issues surrounding censorship and financial control over digital platforms.
Operation AntiSec (2011)
Partnering with the infamous group LulzSec, Anonymous kicked off Operation AntiSec to protest against state surveillance and corporate misconduct. This campaign included breaches of government websites across Brazil, Tunisia, and Zimbabwe, as well as data leaks from media giants like Viacom and Universal Music Group. Their goal was to disrupt systems they considered unethical while exposing confidential information to the public.
Million Mask March (Since 2013)
Every November 5th, thousands around the world don the iconic Guy Fawkes mask for the Million Mask March—a synchronized protest symbolizing resistance against tyranny. The event addresses issues such as government corruption, surveillance overreach, and income inequality, serving as a real-world manifestation of Anonymous’s ideology of civil liberty and accountability.
Singapore Cyber Protests (2013)
When Singapore passed legislation curbing online expression, Anonymous responded by launching cyberattacks on government websites and local media outlets. A hacker known as “The Messiah” led the charge, defacing official sites to protest censorship. The campaign sparked national debate, though the hacker was eventually apprehended and brought to justice.
Ferguson Protests Support (2014)
In the wake of the police shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, Anonymous actively supported the local protests. They took down government websites and released personal details of law enforcement personnel involved in the case. Their digital presence brought global attention to police brutality and systemic racism in the United States.
BlueLeaks (2020)
Anonymous was associated with the massive BlueLeaks disclosure, which exposed nearly 270 GB of data from U.S. law enforcement agencies. Released through the Distributed Denial of Secrets (DDoSecrets) collective, the documents revealed internal reports, emails, and sensitive information. The leak stirred discussions about policing practices, transparency, and domestic surveillance during a time of heightened social unrest.
Why These Missions Matter
Anonymous doesn’t follow traditional activist playbooks. Instead, it uses digital protest, cyberattacks, and data exposure to challenge institutions it views as unjust. While critics question their methods, supporters see Anonymous as a powerful force for transparency, justice, and freedom in an increasingly controlled digital age.
