What are IoT botnets?

IoT Botnets: The Rising Menace to Cybersecurity and How to Combat Them

IoT botnets represent a significant development demonstrating new challenges and threats that the digital environment faces. These botnets are now among some of the most frequently observed threats considerably raising the stakes in the international fight against cybercrime.

"IoT" stands for the Internet-of-Things which refers to the network of physical devices embedded with sensors, software or other technologies for the purpose of connecting and exchanging data over the Internet. But when these devices get infected by malicious software or malware and are controlled by a single source, they transform into a network called a botnet.

A botnet - short for 'robot network' - is a network of hijacked Internet-connected devices, which are installed with malware and controlled as a group without their owners' knowledge. These networks can be used to send spam emails, steal data, or allow the attacker to access the device and its internet connection for illicit purposes.

In reference to IoT botnets, the term specifically refers to botnets composed of infected IoT devices. Where traditional botnets were mainly made up of computers, IoT botnets take advantage of the vulnerability of IoT devices, from smart home devices like intelligent fridges and thermostats to industrial machinery, medical equipment, and even modern automobiles.

The rise of IoT botnets corresponds with an exponential increase in the number of smart, connected devices worldwide. While these devices provide users with unprecedented convenience, they also introduce potential security risks. These devices are often low-cost, built with minimal security features and often lack regular software updates to fix vulnerabilities, making them easy targets for exploitation.

One factor contributing substantially to the proliferation of IoT botnets is device manufacturers' and users’ failure to prioritize security. Many manufacturers aim to bring their device to market quickly while overlooking security concerns, while many users lack knowledge or ignore the need to secure their IoT devices. Subsequently, with weak security features or default passwords, these devices are easily breached by cybercriminals, who exploit them for various nefarious activities.

IoT Botnets have been responsible for some of the most significant DDoS attacks in history. Such an attack occurred in 2016 when a malware called Mirai took over a large number of smart devices (like cameras and routers), transforming them into a botnet, leading to the devastating DDoS attack that affected significant areas of the Internet across the globe.

Fighting against IoT botnets presents a rough battle for cybersecurity experts. Solutions include improvements in device security, development of more robust antivirus software and cultivation of greater consumer awareness. Antivirus manufacturers have a great responsibility when it comes to detecting, disabling, or removing botnet malware from infected devices. The battle is also fought at the network level, with the policing of network traffic outstanding as another powerful tool against IoT botnets.

IoT botnets pose a significant threat in the realm of cybersecurity. While there are numerous potentialities for enhancing the defense against these threats, disclosing the realities of IoT botnets to the public could considerably increase the defense against these cyber threats. regulatory means, plus industry and consumer education coupled with efficient antivirus tools can mitigate the danger posed by IoT botnets to the modern digital world.

IoT botnets FAQs