As internet criminal activity decreases, botnets skyrocket

Everyone has heard of hackers, viruses, and spam. What fewer people have heard of or understand are botnets despite statistics that show they’re trending to be the choice of current cybercriminals.

By using “Command-and-Control” servers, hackers are able to remotely take over computers to execute their nefarious activities. Connecting through C&C servers allows a “bot herder” is able to send out spam emails, spread viruses, distribute malicious software, and steal identities.

Nearly 90% of all email spam is sent through botnets – and that’s not their biggest threat.

This infographic by ZoneAlarm gives us the skinny on Botnets. Click to enlarge.