Botnets have been around for a long time. In fact, their original purpose is not nearly as nefarious as what hackers are using them for now. A botnet is simply a string of connected computers coordinated together to perform a task. They take place daily on our computers to relay information and keep websites going. The problem now is that hackers are using this to clog networks, send spam, and generate fake internet traffic. Most of the time, users have no idea that their device is part of a botnet attack.

It gets a little scarier with the evolution of IoT. Now hackers can use your smart devices as yet another method of implanting botnet attacks. With the lack of security and system updates currently available on IoT devices, it makes it incredibly easy for malicious botnets to compromise your system. Once they’re in, they quite possibly have access to the cameras on the device as well as any stored data.

Botnets work similar to other malware. They are ultimately looking to add your device to their web of computers. More often than not, they trick you into installing a virus on your computer. Once the software is downloaded, it contacts the master computer to start rocking and rolling, using your device as part of the attacks. Sometimes though, botnets can be hacked using a “spider” that crawls the Internet looking for loopholes in networks. Once it exploits holes in security, it does the hacking automatically.  Though hackers are constantly becoming more sophisticated with their skills, there are several ways you can stay safe and protect yourself from these seemingly invisible threats.

First of all, in order to protect yourself, you need good security. Something that can detect malware and remove it. Like mentioned before, you usually won’t realize your computer is even infected. So, purchasing a good security suite is a necessity. Secondly, ensure your devices are up to date. Usually, the software developer will fix any known bugs with an update. This patches any holes in your computer that could have been potentially broken into by hackers. However, just because your computer is up to date doesn’t mean all of your apps are. They are just as important to keep their software current. Third, make sure you are using a firewall while browsing the Internet. If you invest in a security suite, it usually comes with firewall software. However, some do not and you may need to purchase a third party firewall. This is just another line of defense, especially for those “invisible attacks”. Then finally be aware of attachments or links that are unfamiliar to you. That is the easiest way for hackers to breach your data, so pay attention to the little details.

If you take the steps to browse the Internet safely you will avoid any drama that comes with a botnet breach. Hackers usually go for what’s fast and easy, so if you’re implementing basic security standards, they’ll most likely look right past you. Just don’t let your guard down. The Internet is a crazy place and a lot can happen.Botnets have been around for a long time. In fact, their original purpose is not nearly as nefarious as what hackers are using them for now. A botnet is simply a string of connected computers coordinated together to perform a task. They take place daily on our computers to relay information and keep websites going. The problem now is that hackers are using this to clog networks, send spam, and generate fake internet traffic. Most of the time, users have no idea that their device is part of a botnet attack.

It gets a little scarier with the evolution of IoT. Now hackers can use your smart devices as yet another method of implanting botnet attacks. With the lack of security and system updates currently available on IoT devices, it makes it incredibly easy for malicious botnets to compromise your system. Once they’re in, they quite possibly have access to the cameras on the device as well as any stored data.

Botnets work similar to other malware. They are ultimately looking to add your device to their web of computers. More often than not, they trick you into installing a virus on your computer. Once the software is downloaded, it contacts the master computer to start rocking and rolling, using your device as part of the attacks. Sometimes though, botnets can be hacked using a “spider” that crawls the Internet looking for loopholes in networks. Once it exploits holes in security, it does the hacking automatically. Though hackers are constantly becoming more sophisticated with their skills, there are several ways you can stay safe and protect yourself from these seemingly invisible threats.

First of all, in order to protect yourself, you need good security. Something that can detect malware and remove it. Like mentioned before, you usually won’t realize your computer is even infected. So, purchasing a good security suite is a necessity. Secondly, ensure your devices are up to date. Usually, the software developer will fix any known bugs with an update. This patches any holes in your computer that could have been potentially broken into by hackers. However, just because your computer is up to date doesn’t mean all of your apps are. They are just as important to keep their software current. Third, make sure you are using a firewall while browsing the Internet. If you invest in a security suite, it usually comes with firewall software. However, some do not and you may need to purchase a third party firewall. This is just another line of defense, especially for those “invisible attacks”. Then finally be aware of attachments or links that are unfamiliar to you. That is the easiest way for hackers to breach your data, so pay attention to the little details.

If you take the steps to browse the Internet safely you will avoid any drama that comes with a botnet breach. Hackers usually go for what’s fast and easy, so if you’re implementing basic security standards, they’ll most likely look right past you. Just don’t let your guard down. The Internet is a crazy place and a lot can happen.