November 1, 2023 at 12:54PM
Recent research from cybersecurity firm ESET suggests that the shutdown of the Mozi botnet was likely deliberate and initiated by its operators, possibly under pressure from Chinese authorities. Mozi was a highly active botnet responsible for a significant portion of IoT botnet traffic. ESET discovered a kill switch that disabled the botnet’s malicious activities. The company believes the takedown provides valuable insight into the creation, operation, and dismantling of such botnets.
Takeaway: The recent shutdown of the Mozi botnet is believed to be a deliberate takedown initiated by its creators, potentially under the pressure of Chinese law enforcement. Cybersecurity firm ESET discovered a kill switch that was used to disable the botnet’s malicious routines. The takedown is significant as Mozi was once a highly active botnet responsible for a substantial portion of IoT botnet traffic. The shutdown provides valuable insights into the creation, operation, and dismantling of such botnets.