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Security Operations · Foundational

Botnet

A network of compromised devices remotely controlled by an attacker to perform coordinated tasks.

Definition

Each infected device, called a bot or zombie, receives commands from command-and-control infrastructure to launch DDoS attacks, send spam, mine cryptocurrency or steal credentials. Botnets increasingly include IoT devices with default passwords. Takedowns typically target the C2 infrastructure.

Example

Mirai enslaved hundreds of thousands of IoT cameras to launch record DDoS attacks.

Exam tip

DDoS questions frequently assume a botnet as the source; IoT default credentials are the common infection vector.

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