Botnet

Botnet may refer to any collection of bots, even those not programmed for malicious activity. It generally refers to a group of compromised systems, or zombies, being controlled by a master unit. Newer bots have the ability to automatically scan various platforms in search of vulnerabilities and passwords. The more weaknesses they are able to detect, the more valuable they become to that particular botnet community. Botnets will exploit robot programs for many reasons: to initiate a denial of service attack, scanning of open mail sever relays, to distribute spam, and to thieve sensitive information, such as login details and credit card numbers. Botnet communities typically work with others, which make them more dangerous. Instead of developing levels of hierarchy, they often rely on friend to friend relationships. However, this often causes conflict over who will control what compromised unit, including what actions may or may not be taken against the target.