Botnet

A botnet is a collection of devices, such as computers, smartphones, or Internet of Things (IoT) devices, that have been infected with malware and are remotely controlled by a hacker. These devices are often used to carry out attacks, such as sending spam emails, launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, or stealing data.

What it means

A botnet operates like a hive mind, with each infected device acting as a "bot" under the control of a central server. The hacker can use these bots to overwhelm websites, spread malware, or steal sensitive information. Botnets are often created by infecting devices with malware that allows remote access.

Why it matters

Botnets can cause significant damage to individuals and organizations. They can disrupt online services, steal personal data, or be used to launch attacks on other systems. Because botnets are often hidden and operate in the background, they are difficult to detect and stop.

What to do

Keep your software and devices up to date to protect against malware. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication. If you suspect your device is part of a botnet, run a security scan and remove any malicious software.