The Evolution of Phreaking: From Whistles to Hacking

Phreaking began with exploring telephone systems to make free calls. Early phreakers used techniques like 'blue boxes' to mimic phone company signals. Joe Engressia, a blind student, discovered he could whistle at the perfect frequency to manipulate the system.

John Draper, aka Cap'n Crunch, found that a toy whistle from Cap'n Crunch cereal boxes emitted a 2600 Hz tone, the same frequency needed to control phone lines. This discovery revolutionized phreaking, making it accessible and leading to widespread abuse.

In the 1970s, phreaking became a subculture with its own language and community. Phreakers like Evan Doorbell and Joybubbles shared knowledge via underground newsletters like TAP (Technical Assistance Program), spreading advanced techniques and fostering a sense of community.

Phreakers laid the groundwork for modern hacking. Many early phreakers transitioned to computer hacking as technology evolved. Notable figures like Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak were inspired by phreaking, influencing their creation of Apple and shaping the tech industry.

By the 1980s, phone companies upgraded their systems, making phreaking more difficult. Increased law enforcement attention led to arrests and convictions. Famous cases like the 1972 arrest of Cap'n Crunch highlighted the legal risks, leading to phreaking's decline.

Former phreaker Kevin Mitnick once used his skills to evade the FBI, later becoming a security consultant and even training FBI agents in cybersecurity.