The Glassbreakers are a criminal gang of approximately 120 members who specialize in burglary, robbery, and heist operations targeting upper-tier residences and businesses. Their name comes from their specialty: breaking through the literal and metaphorical barriers between tiers — bypassing the security systems, physical barriers, and surveillance networks that separate the Shelf and Circuit from the Laceworks and Core where the valuable targets live.

The gang recruits based on skill rather than territory. Members include former security system installers who know the weak points, parkour specialists who can navigate the vertical architecture between tiers, electronic warfare technicians who can blind surveillance systems, and old-fashioned safe crackers who can defeat physical security that most criminals don't bother learning to beat. A Glassbreaker crew is a precision instrument — small (four to six people), highly specialized, and capable of operations that larger, clumsier organizations can't attempt.

The Glassbreakers maintain a democratic structure unusual for criminal organizations. Jobs are proposed, planned, and voted on collectively. Proceeds are split equally. Members who want to leave can do so without penalty, taking their share. This structure attracts a higher caliber of criminal — people who value competence over loyalty oaths and fair dealing over hierarchical control.