THE international collective of hackers and activists known as Anonymous has set up operations in Mandurah, and took a leading organisational role in Sunday’s climate rally in Perth.
Anonymous, which became famous for online protests against the Church of Scientology in 2008 and PayPal in 2010, describes itself as an “internet gathering” of like-minded individuals with “no leaders and no hierarchy”.
A member of Anonymous Mandurah, who did not reveal his or her name, said there was no signup or induction required to be a member of the group.
Members of Anonymous do not know each other’s identity, but refer to each other as “anons”.
“You are Anonymous simply because you choose to be,” the Mandurah anon said.
“We are not a group as such; just a collective of people from across the world from all countries, all faiths and all social and political groups whom believe a similar idea.
“We believe in freedom of belief and are against censorship, but we mostly have come to a realisation that corporate greed and government corruption worldwide is the biggest threat to peace and prosperity.”
The Mandurah anon would not reveal how many members of the group operate in Mandurah, but confirmed they would be planning action in the City.
So far, more than 200 people have signed up to a Facebook page promoting the group’s activity.
“Many people in Mandurah and the surrounding areas are sick of being ignored by their representatives and do not believe what is sold to them by the media and by our government,” the anon said.
“The people’s climate march was a perfect example of that; it was a huge turnout of people from many, many groups usually with conflicting views, however united for a worthy common cause.
“Anonymous believe this to be the only way forward; putting differences aside to work for the common good.”
Anonymous provided promotional, logistical and marshalling support for the climate march which attracted thousands.
The activist said he/she was not concerned about those who said Anonymous were just law-breakers or trouble-makers.
“Those who believe Anonymous are criminals or just kids in Mum’s garage shutting down the Playstation network, I am afraid you are all very misinformed,” they said.
“We are a world-wide collective of millions of activists, hacktivists, eco-warriors and regular citizens from all walks of life, committed to making sure truth is exposed.”