Botnet
A network of compromised computers (bots) controlled by an attacker to perform malicious activities such as DDoS attacks, spam distribution, and data theft.
Botnet
A botnet is a network of compromised computers, servers, or IoT devices (called "bots" or "zombies") that are controlled by an attacker through a command and control (C&C) infrastructure. Botnets are used to perform various malicious activities while remaining hidden from the device owners.
How Botnets Work
- Infection: Malware infects devices through various vectors (phishing, vulnerabilities, etc.)
- Establishment: Infected devices connect to C&C servers
- Control: Attacker sends commands to the botnet
- Execution: Bots perform malicious activities as directed
Common Botnet Activities
- DDoS Attacks: Overwhelm target systems with traffic
- Spam Distribution: Send massive amounts of unwanted emails
- Data Theft: Steal sensitive information from infected devices
- Cryptocurrency Mining: Use device resources for mining operations
- Click Fraud: Generate fake clicks for advertising revenue
Botnet Architecture
- Centralized: Single C&C server controls all bots
- Decentralized: Multiple C&C servers for redundancy
- P2P: Bots communicate directly with each other
- Hybrid: Combination of different architectures
Detection and Prevention
- Network Monitoring: Detect unusual traffic patterns
- Endpoint Protection: Use antivirus and EDR solutions
- Patch Management: Keep systems updated
- User Education: Prevent initial infections
- C&C Blocking: Block known command and control servers
Notable Botnets
- Mirai: Targeted IoT devices for DDoS attacks
- Conficker: One of the largest botnets in history
- Zeus: Banking trojan botnet
- Emotet: Advanced banking trojan and botnet
Incident Response
- Identify and isolate infected devices
- Remove malware and restore systems
- Block C&C communications
- Monitor for reinfection
Related Concepts
- DDoS Attack: Common botnet activity
- Command and Control: Infrastructure for botnet control
- Malware: Software that creates botnets
Conclusion
Botnets represent a significant threat to individuals and organizations. Prevention through security awareness, system updates, and monitoring is essential to avoid becoming part of a botnet.
Network of compromised devices (bots)
Centralized command and control (C&C) server
DDoS, spam, data theft, cryptocurrency mining