Bot(s)
A Bot is a computer connected to the Internet that has been surreptitiously / secretly compromised with malicious logic to perform activities under remote the command and control of a remote administrator.
Botnet
A Botnet is a collection of computers compromised by malicious code and controlled across a network.
Bot Master
A Bot Master is the controller of a botnet that, from a remote location, provides direction to the compromised computers in the botnet.
What does this mean for an SMB?
Bots and Botnets are pieces of malware which can infiltrate your company through phishing attacks, weak remote access protected only by password and not two-factor authenticated. To protect against Bots and Botnetworks, SMB owners should always ensure they have the following:
- Deploy next-generation Antivirus software and keep it up to date;
- Ensure you enable 2-factor authentication to access your VPN, O365, GSuite, banking, and any other critical accounts.
- If you have 1 and 2 in place, consider adopting a Password Manager across your company. These tools improve security and productivity.
Related Terms: Social Media Bots, Distributed Denial of Service
Additional Reading: What is a Botnet – Symantec