To set the record straight:

Yes, it’s true that I’m a computer programmer—but that in no way makes me a hacker. And yes, it’s true that my novel HitList is about a hacker who stole the user database of a disreputable website of nefarious purpose. And yes, after the hacking, the website users’ secrets were unleashed, and much chaos did ensue. But no no no no, I did not hack the Ashley Madison website.  

Look—I saw how it turned out in HitList. I know better.