Pop over to the BBC Somerset website to hear Mike and Richard chatting to Ben McGrail about botnets: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00lvztb
(scroll through to 1hour 24 minutes for the interview)
It only takes one click to receive a botnet virus onto your computer. It was revealed this week by researchers that over 1 million machines in the UK are affected by botnets – a small silent piece of software that downloads to your PC and connects it to thousands of others. Once connected hackers are able to utilise your PC’s storage and connection in combination with many others to send spam, spread the virus and even hack larger, more secure systems.
The odd thing is you are unlikely to notice. Computers slow down, your browser might automatically open websites you don’t recognise or your internet connectivity may become erratic but it isn’t immediately obvious. The botnet is communicating with other botnets – causing trouble.
Botnets are fortunately a bit simple and as such are sometimes quite simple to spot. If you get an email from a friend or contact with no text other than an obscure link – it’s probably a botnet. Easy to spot – don’t click on it. Sometimes the email will be disguised as trying to sell you something. Then the botnet is less easy to spot but the link in the email is still likely to be obscure and if the email has not come from a company you normally purchase goods or services from then ignore it.
Social media can also catch people out. Sometimes botnets will post things on your wall or in your newsfeed. If it’s from someone you don’t know or the tone of the post is out of character for the people you know just ignore them and delete the post.
What can be done?
Purchase some good quality anti-virus. TurnKey I.T Solutions partners with NOD 32 as our recommended anti-virus software. Run some scans and let the anti-virus search out any potential bots on your system. Change your passwords and always keep your bank details close to your chest.
But the best line of defence is knowing the bots are out there. We’ve just eliminated the surprise, always think before you click on a link, always keep your antivirus up to date and be vigilant.
With a little pre-knowledge and the right precautions botnets should not be a cause for concern.
