A botnet, short for “robot network,” is a network of compromised computers, often referred to as “bots” or “zombies,” that are under the control of a single entity, the botmaster. These compromised computers are typically infected with malicious software, known as malware, which allows the botmaster to control them remotely.
Botnet
Botnet Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks
Botnets are frequently used to launch DDoS attacks, overwhelming a target’s servers or network infrastructure with a flood of traffic, rendering it unavailabIn a botnet-powered DDoS attack, a network of compromised computers, controlled by a single entity, floods a target with overwhelming traffic to disrupt its services.
The infected computers, or bots, follow the commands of the botmaster to execute various types of attacks, such as volume-based, protocol-based, or application layer attacks.
The goal is to render the target's services unavailable to legitimate users. le to users.
Botnets are commonly used for conducting (DDoS) attacks.
Botnet Spam Distribution
Botnets use compromised computers to send out large volumes of spam emails. The botmaster controls these infected computers, issuing commands for email content and distribution.
Spam emails often contain phishing attempts or malware and techniques like email spoofing make it challenging to filter out malicious emails.
Botnets are often used for sending out emails or distributing malware.
Botnet Credential Theft
Botnets, controlled by a central entity, infect computers and use techniques like keylogging to steal usernames and passwords. Stolen credentials are sent to a central server, where they may be sold or used for unauthorized access and financial gain.
A is a collection of compromised computers, known as zombies or bots, that are controlled by a central command and control server.
Botnet Click Fraud
Botnets, controlled by a central entity, use infected computers to generate automated clicks on online advertisements, a practice known as click fraud.
This fraudulent activity aims to inflate ad revenue at the expense of advertisers who pay for clicks that lack genuine user interest.
The process of infecting computers and adding them to a botnet is called .
Botnet Proxy Services
Botnets are also used to provide proxy services, allowing malicious actors to anonymize their online activities. In this context, compromised computers within the botnet act as proxies, relaying internet traffic on behalf of the user.
This service can be exploited for various illicit purposes, including hiding the origin of cyberattacks, evading content restrictions, and facilitating unauthorized access to online resources.
The decentralized and distributed nature of botnets makes it challenging to trace and block these proxy services effectively.
What is a botmaster?
Botnet Data Theft
Botnet data theft involves a network of compromised computers, known as a botnet, that is controlled by a cybercriminal. The attacker uses malware to remotely control these compromised devices and extracts sensitive information such as personal data and login credentials.
The stolen data is then sent back to the attacker's central server.
Which of the following is a sign that a computer may be part of a botnet?
Botnet Cryptojacking
Botnet cryptojacking involves using a network of compromised computers to secretly mine cryptocurrency without the owners' knowledge.
Malicious actors deploy malware on these devices, turning them into mining tools that contribute computing power.