Cybersecurity Glossary
Botnet
A network of compromised machines controlled remotely and rented out for attacks.
What Botnet means
Once malware takes hold, a device can be quietly enrolled into a botnet. It carries on working normally while also sending spam, testing stolen passwords against other sites, mining cryptocurrency or joining denial of service attacks. Home routers, cameras and printers are common members.
Why Botnet matters for small businesses and nonprofits
Being part of a botnet damages you indirectly. Your address ends up on blocklists, your legitimate email starts landing in spam folders, and your internet connection slows. It is also a strong sign that something inside your network is compromised.
What to do about Botnet
- Change default passwords on routers, cameras and printers
- Monitor outbound traffic, not just inbound, because botnet traffic leaves your network
- Check whether your mail domain or IP appears on public blocklists
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