What is a Botnet?
A Botnet is a network of hijacked devices infected with malware that allows a cybercriminal to control them remotely without the device owners’ knowledge. These bots can be used to launch DDoS attacks, phishing campaigns, steal credentials and other sensitive information, or perform CPU-intensive tasks.
Malicious actors can create botnets using a variety of methods, including exploiting web vulnerabilities, installing Trojan horse malware on a victim’s computer or cracking weak authentication to gain remote access. Once a device is infected, it can self-propagate by recruiting other devices connected to the same network to become part of the botnet. These devices can include personal computers, servers, mobile phones and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Once a botnet is created, attackers will send commands to the infected bots through a client/server model. This typically involves a central command and control server to which the bots connect to communicate instructions and receive updates to their malicious code. Alternatively, attackers can deploy peer to peer botnets that operate in a decentralized manner without the need for a C&C server.
Keeping up with the latest cybersecurity trends is the best way to mitigate the threat of botnets. Practicing good password hygiene, using strong anti-virus software and staying vigilant when clicking on links in email or text messages will help you avoid malicious hijacks of your devices. In addition, taking ethical hacking courses like Simplilearn’s Advanced Executive Program in Cyber Security can boost your career skills and increase your ability to defend your organization from cybercriminals.