Botnets
Modern software consists of millions of lines of code, and programming errors - whether deliberate or not - can easily pass undetected. Programming errors create vulnerabilities that attackers with local or remote access can use to take over and control computers very easily. Considered alongside the growth of home computers using high speed broadband connections, there is a clear opportunity for the creation of vast networks of compromised or 'zombie' machines that can be used for malicious purposes.
Botnets, as these networks are called, can be used to gather credit card numbers by 'sniffing' or logging the strokes of a victim's keyboard or stealing information. They are also designed for the delivery of:
- malware such as viruses, worms and Trojans
The victim machines can be used to seed further victims and so the propagative process multiplies. There are already hundreds of thousands of 'zombie' machines available for exploitation.
Broadband access in the UK is becoming faster and more widespread - estimates put the number of broadband connected households at 5.9 million in 2005 and this is predicted to more than double by 2010. In May 2005, broadband connections overtook dial-up for the first time, and in Europe, where many countries have extensive cable networks, it is estimated that speeds will be fast enough to provide 4.5 million homes with TV over IP by 2008. However, all this growth in connectivity will come at an increasing cost if not matched by additional protective security.
You can control access to your computer and reduce the threat from Botnets, which are created remotely, through the effective use of firewalls. By their nature, Botnets exploit common vulnerabilities for which patches are usually available: you should ensure that these are installed when they are released.
17/07/2007