BotNet News

A botnet is a network of malware-infected devices that are controlled remotely. It can be used for a wide range of cyberattacks, including DDoS attacks and stealing credentials.

Once a device is infected, it will listen for instructions from the attacker’s command and control infrastructure (C2). These may be distributed via a variety of means: data posted on websites, responses to DNS queries, or even IRC chat sessions. Bots can be instructed to do almost anything, from sending spam and cryptocurrency mining to performing DDoS attacks or distributing malicious links in phishing campaigns.

Cybercriminals often develop or purchase botnet malware on dark web marketplaces. They then embed it in phishing emails, malvertising and exploit kits to infect users without their knowledge. The malware then self-propagates, spreading to other devices in the same network through worm-like methods.

As a result, sophisticated botnets can grow to be incredibly large, and are difficult to disrupt. For example, the Mariposa botnet infected more than 12 million computers worldwide with worm malware, and was used to steal credit card numbers, distribute malware, and run pump-and-dump stock scams. Another well-known example is the ZeuS botnet, which at its peak was used to deliver 74 billion spam messages and conduct DDoS attacks.

A good way to prevent being infected is to install an anti-virus program on each computer. If a device has been infected, strategies for regaining control include restoring from a backup, running a factory reset or reformatting, and contacting law enforcement for assistance.