What is a Botnet?

A botnet is a large group of computers controlled by a single computer, most often used by hackers to launch denial of service attacks, send SPAM, mine for cryptocoin or conduct illegal activities.

Overview

What it is:

A botnet is a large group of infected, “slave” computers controlled without permission by a single “master” computer.

What it does:

Hackers use botnets to launch denial of service attacks against larger organizations, as well as sending SPAM, mining for cryptocoin and other illegal activities.

Why it matters:

Botnets can launch powerful attacks that are difficult to defend. Enterprises need to take pre-emptive steps to mitigate the potential risks of botnets.

What to do about it:

Prevent botnet infections by “hardening” systems with multi-factor authentication and high-level encryption, and look to mechanisms that can protect against a botnet attack.

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