A botnet, a contraction of “robot network,” is a collection of internet-connected devices, including computers, smartphones, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, that have been compromised by malware and are controlled as a group without the owners’ knowledge. These networks of infected devices, also known as “bots,” are commonly used by cybercriminals to launch coordinated attacks, such as distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) campaigns or credential stuffing attacks.
Botnets are formed when cybercriminals use malware to take control of multiple devices. These devices are then used to perform automated tasks over the internet, often for malicious purposes. The scale of a botnet can vary greatly, ranging from a few thousand to millions of compromised devices. The larger the botnet, the more significant the impact of the attacks it can execute.
One of the primary uses of botnets is to conduct DDoS attacks. In a DDoS attack, the botnet floods a target website or network with excessive traffic, overwhelming the server’s capacity and causing slowdowns or complete shutdowns. This can lead to significant disruptions and financial losses for businesses and organizations.
Another common use of botnets is for credential stuffing attacks, where cybercriminals use automated scripts to attempt logins on various websites using stolen credentials. The scale of botnets allows for these attacks to be conducted at a high volume, increasing the chances of successful unauthorized access to user accounts.
The diverse range of devices in a botnet, especially with the inclusion of IoT devices, makes them particularly formidable. IoT devices, such as smart home gadgets, are often less secure than computers and smartphones, making them easier targets for hackers to incorporate into botnets.
Botnets pose a significant threat in the cybersecurity landscape due to their ability to perform large-scale attacks and their often undetected presence on users’ devices. Combatting botnets requires a combination of robust cybersecurity practices, such as installing security updates, using strong, unique passwords, and implementing network security measures. Additionally, the collaboration between cybersecurity professionals, internet service providers, and users is essential to identify, dismantle, and prevent the formation of botnets.