What is a Botnet?
A Botnet is a network of hijacked internet-connected devices that are infected with malware. It is remotely controlled by a hacker/cybercriminal known as the Bot herder. A Botnet can be used to carry out a wide range of attacks, including stealing passwords and credentials, attacking websites, committing identity theft and launching Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) assaults.
A cybercriminal assembles a botnet through infected computers, laptops, tablets and other IoT devices. Each infected device is known as a Bot and is enslaved to execute commands on command from the hacker. Once the swarm of bots is ready, attackers launch an attack against their targets.
Attackers usually control the infected devices in two different ways. One approach is the traditional client-server model. Infected devices are programmed to remain dormant until they receive instructions from a command and control server (C&C).
Another method of controlling bots is through a peer-to-peer (P2P) network. P2P networks allow infected bots to communicate directly with each other without needing a C&C server, relying on a decentralized architecture.
A well-known example of a Botnet is the Mirai botnet, which infected hundreds of thousands of IoT devices and used them to launch DDoS attacks. Other examples of Botnets include Storm and 3ve, both of which carried out a variety of attacks ranging from DDoS to ad fraud. You may detect the presence of a botnet if you notice programs running continuously or unexpected changes in your system files. To protect yourself, ensure that you follow good surfing habits, keep your operating systems up to date and install anti-virus software. You can also protect your business from botnets by establishing a multi-factor authentication method and implementing DDoS protection tools.