Why Android Users Need to Be Scared of Botnet?

Botnet seems to be again creating nuisance in the IT world and has become a fearful word for those who are concerned about their PC security. The reason being that it is threatening and is related to computers at large. Let us find out more about it and understand how dangerous Botnet can be to the Android users.

About Botnets

Botnets can be defined as inter-connected computers that are running internet and are in control of hacker. These computers then behave as robot network, and the term is coined as Botnet. This group of network can be in thousands or more. A hacker who controls them uses these computers for propagation of viruses, spreading malware infection, sending spams and attacking other systems.

Once these systems are in control of hackers they use them to transmit viruses, worms, infect other systems via application, often referred as a bot. it does not just stop there as these systems are further used for creating mass level nuisance. Some of the threats it can cause to PCs include denial-of-service attacks, creation and misuse of SMTP, frauds, login IDs creation, personal data theft and misappropriation of financial details. Basically, it is as dangerous as one can ever imagine because of its capability to threaten system security as well as steal private details of another user.

How it happens?

It all occurs through well-planned attacks by distributed denial-of-service. Multiple systems are involved in propagation of infection where many requests are submitted to a single service. This results in overloading and prevention of a system from furnishing legitimate requests. Adware is used for replacing legit advertisement banners to offer deals or other commercial offering. The user is totally unaware as it is impossible to tell if the online ad, is fake or a real deal. Another trick used by spyware software for transmitting personal information of a user includes details like credit card numbers, passwords and IDs. Other things include click frauds which is initiated by a user who often visits various URLs and websites that are designed to be real but are actually fake. Just after clicking on any such link, the user gets entrapped in an online fraudulent deal that is used by hackers for commercial gain. This often results in false web traffic too.

Warning for Android Users

According to a well-known security suite, Trojans are threatening Android OS more than ever. Malware like Obad.a is attacking devices that are powered with Android and all these are vulnerable to Botnets. This malware is spread along with Trojan-SMS that is used to transmit malicious messages. These messages contain links that after being clicked by a user automatically download malware in their tablet or Smartphone.

The messages are sent to numerous users in form of SMS and this is how the process is repeated. However, it is not yet confirmed if the newer version of Android OS is vulnerable to the attack but the older version users need to beware of it. Nonetheless, it is always prevalent so that you need to be on a lookout for such messages and curb your urge to click the URL sent through messages. You should be careful as it might be a Botnet attack for spreading malware.

Another easy target area is a malicious Android app that can use the path of SMS in real time. This gives hackers a brief opportunity to hack into the devices of Android users even before any user is aware about what exactly is happening.

Polly is known for her immense dedication towards spreading technical and technological awareness amongst masses. She is a qualified tech support engineer handling a whole team towards providing online technical support. Her keen interest in technology and gadgets has lead her to write about it and spread the word to people. She wishes that each one be aware of the prevalent technology and resolving common computer issues.

Category: Android, Smartphone