An alias is a false name or handle used online to conceal a person's real identity. In cybersecurity contexts, aliases are commonly adopted by individuals such as hackers, security researchers, or forum participants to protect their privacy, avoid detection, or separate their online activities from their real-world persona. Using an alias can help prevent personal information from being exposed and reduce the risk of targeted attacks or unwanted attention. While aliases are often associated with malicious activity, they are also used for legitimate privacy and security reasons.