Topic Centers

A Generalist’s Overview: Bots

A "bot" is a type of malware that allows an attacker to take control over an affected computer. Also known as “Web robots,” bots are usually part of a network of infected machines, known as a “botnet,” which is typically made up of victim machines that stretch across the globe.

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Forensically Speaking

• Bots are one of the most sophisticated and popular types of cybercrime today. They allow hackers to take control of many computers at a time, and turn them into "zombie" computers, which operate as part of a powerful "botnet" to spread viruses, generate spam, and commit other types of online crime and fraud.
• They steal personal and private information and communicate it back to the malicious user: credit card numbers, bank credentials, or other sensitive personal information
• Fraudsters use bots to boost Web advertising billings by automatically clicking on Internet ads.

Protect Yourself: Anti-Bot Yourself

• Install top-rated security software (such as Norton AntiBot).
• Configure your software’s settings to update automatically.
• Increase the security settings on your browser.
• Limit your user rights when online.
• Never click on attachments unless you can verify the source.
• Ensure that your system is patched with the most current Microsoft Windows™ Update.
• Set your computer’s security settings to update automatically, to ensure you always have the most current system patches.