Maybe let's define what is "hack" and what is "access" according to thefreedictionary.com
hack 1 (hăk)
v. hacked, hack·ing, hacks
v.tr.
b. To gain access to (a computer file or network) illegally or without authorization: hacked the firm's personnel database.
ac·cess (ăk′sĕs)
n.
1. A means of approaching, entering, exiting, communicating with, or making use of: a store with easy access.
2. The ability or right to approach, enter, exit, communicate with, or make use of: has access to the restricted area; has access to classified material.
As and old computer geek, this is a common misconception and not any serious dictionary would define it like that. Hacker is a computer enthusiast and word hacking has been tainted by people who don't understand the whole scene and see computer experts as scary criminals just because they COULD use it to illegal purposes.
Word describing gaining access illegally should be Cracker, which is the word that was commonly used by "the scene" because they cracked systems for their own benefit or the benefit for others.