A botnet is a network of compromised computers, smartphones, or other internet-connected devices infected with malware and controlled remotely by cybercriminals. These hijacked devices are used to carry out large-scale cyberattacks, such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) or Telephony Denial of Service (TDoS) attacks, often without their owners’ knowledge.
What is a DDoS Attack?
A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack floods a server, website, or network with an overwhelming amount of internet traffic from multiple sources. This makes it impossible for the targeted service to function normally, as the volume of requests exceeds its capacity. Unlike simpler attacks, DDoS assaults are difficult to stop because they originate from countless devices simultaneously.
The rise of “DDoS-for-hire” services has made it easier than ever for cybercriminals with limited technical skills to launch disruptive attacks.
How to Prepare for a DDoS Attack
Proactive measures can help minimize the impact of a DDoS attack. Consider the following steps:
Use a Mitigation Service Enroll in a DDoS mitigation service designed to detect abnormal traffic patterns and redirect malicious traffic away from your network.
Partner with Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) Establish a relationship with your ISP before an attack occurs. During an incident, they can help manage and filter harmful traffic targeting your network.
Develop a Business Continuity Plan Create and maintain a continuity plan to ensure essential operations can continue during cyberattacks or other emergencies. Regularly test and update this plan to address evolving threats.
Secure Backups Ensure your data backups are stored offline or in a separate environment not directly connected to your primary network. This prevents attackers from compromising backup systems during an attack.
Review Security Policies Regularly update patching schedules, security protocols, user agreements, and incident response plans to address current cyber threats. An organized and proactive approach is key to resilience. By taking these steps, organizations can reduce their vulnerability to DDoS attacks and maintain operations even during disruptive events.
If you are a victim of an BotNET\DDoS attack, you should immediately report the incident to your local law enforcement authorities for assistance and to file a formal report.
Article prepared by:
Olaf Andersson
Digital Security Officer at Norwegian National Security Authority
The European Crypto Fraud Intelligence Unit (ECFIU) focuses exclusively on cyber-enabled fraud, primarily within the realms of cryptocurrency and investment schemes. For reports concerning crimes such as human trafficking, human rights violations, terrorist financing, or other serious offenses with a primary physical component, please contact the relevant national law enforcement or government authorities directly.