` ::From a SearchSecurity link to a DoS definition: http://searchappsecurity.techtarget.com/sDefinition/0,,sid92_gci213591,00.html - ``On the Internet, a denial of service (DoS) attack is an incident in which a user or organization is deprived of the services of a resource they would normally expect to have.``  Later clarification does not qualify that it is required for a webserver to stop responding for it to be a DoS, only that typically this is the result.  Despite what the group claims, from the definition of DoS listed on Wiki and at this other security website, AA419 commits a DoS when it causes the site to consume its resources such that it can no longer provide its intended service, Obstruct the communication media and the criminal is deprived of the services of a resource they would normally expect to have.  AA419 is not the law and it is not a web host.  Therefore, its actions are a form of vigilante action, despite their belief it is for the greater good.  I'm not defending 419 perpetrators and I believe they should be shut down.  However, taking the law into your own hands is not something that should be suggested when there are legal channels otherwise.`