Origins
The term vandal derives from the pre-modern Germanic tribe which invaded the Roman Empire in the late 5th Century A.D. Vandals took up key positions in North Africa, including the bishopric of Hippo, erstwhile seat of Augustine. Later, the Vandals were expelled by the armies of Belisarius and Justinian.
Modern Application
Like the term Goth, also derived from a Germanic tribal name, "vandal" has taken on a modern context. In western culture, a "vandal" is one who defaces property not belonging to herself. Typically a misdemeanor, acts of vandalism are infringements upon social wellbeing and repose.
No doubt the term derives from the late Roman distaste for Germanic tribes.