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Top Internet Threats

by Evan Shamoon on February 13, 2008 at 08:53 PM



The threat: Botnets

The problem: "Botnet" is a term used to describe a collection of software robots that run autonomously. They run on groups of remotely-controlled "zombie" computers all linked over the Internet -- nearly any machine can function as a zombie computer, including yours. The compromised computers house worms, Trojan horses (a virus disguised as a regular program), or backdoors (stealth viruses that sneak onto your computer undetected) -- all controlled by a "bot herder," an actual person who is generally using the power and anonymity of other people's computers for nefarious purposes. Dutch police found a 1.5 million computer botnet in 2005, and these networks have been proliferating and increasing in size over the years. You really, really don't want to be part of a botnet.

How to protect yourself: If you notice your PC doing weird things -- turning on and off at random times or generally acting inconsistently -- then you may be using a zombie computer. Several security companies such as Symantec, Trend Micro, and FireEye have announced products to stop botnets -- check out the companies' respective Web sites for more information. In addition, you can check out plenty of free anti-virus programs at the Switched/CNET download center.


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