Hacker forums function as a kind of combination training academy, social network and central bazaar for attackers looking for new tools, methods and techniques. Researchers at Imperva began looking at one specific forum in June 2010, and focused in large part on what kinds of discussions the members were having. They found that many of the would-be attackers are not only interested in finding new tools and techniques, but also sometimes enjoy discussing religion, books and philosophy. The main reason for being for many of these sites is to help attackers who are looking to buy or sell pilfered goods find one another.
Source: https://threatpost.com/inside-hacker-forum-101711/75761/