TechnologyJuly 13, 2026

botnet

/ˈbɒtnɛt/

Definition

A network of compromised computers or devices, often infected with malware, that are controlled remotely by a threat actor to perform malicious activities.

Etymology

The word is a portmanteau of 'robot' and 'network,' reflecting the idea of machines performing automated tasks. It emerged in the early 1990s as internet-connected devices became targets for centralized control by malicious users.

In the news

In this article, the term refers to a network of infected Android devices that hackers use to maintain a persistent presence and execute cyberattacks. Black Lotus Labs tracks these botnets to identify and neutralize the criminal activity.

Lumen’s Black Lotus Labs fights network security threats with AI

Read the full article ↗

Fierce Network

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