The definition of botnet is simple: A bunch of computers acting together to accomplish a shared task. If that definition seems ambiguous, it’s because it is: Botnets aren’t malicious by definition.

However, when a computer or any other device is connected to the internet, it runs a lot of risks from malware and hackers. We often assume that our personal devices are potential victims, and not that they could be components in cyberattacks, but they can be if they become a node in a botnet.

Botnets are used to do all sorts of malicious things, like launch distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, spread malware, and mine cryptocurrency–all without the device’s owner being aware that it’s been hijacked.

Learn more about botnets and how to protect your devices with this free PDF download from TechRepublic.

In the download:

• What is a botnet?
• What are malicious botnets used for?
• What are the signs a device is infected by a botnet?
• Signs a smartphone is infected with botnet malware
• Signs an IoT device has been infected with botnet malware
• How can I prevent my devices from becoming botnet nodes?
• And much more!