Zombie computer facts for kids

A zombie computer is a computer connected to the Internet that has been taken over by someone else without the owner knowing. This can happen because of a hacker, a computer virus, or a Trojan horse.

These computers are called "zombies" because, like the fictional creatures, they are controlled by someone else and do things without their own will. Most people whose computers become zombies don't even realize it's happening.

What is a Zombie Computer?

A zombie computer is like a puppet. Someone else, often a hacker, controls it from far away. They can make the computer send out spam emails, attack websites, or do other unwanted things.

How Computers Become Zombies

Computers can become zombies in a few ways.

• Viruses: A computer virus is a harmful program that can infect your computer. It might get onto your computer through a suspicious email or a bad website.
• Trojan Horses: A Trojan horse is a type of malware that pretends to be something useful or fun. For example, it might look like a free game or a helpful tool. But once you install it, it secretly lets a hacker take control.
• Hacking: Sometimes, a skilled hacker can find weaknesses in a computer's security. They can then break in and install software that gives them control.

What is Malware?

Both viruses and Trojan horses are types of malware. Malware is short for "malicious software." It's any program designed to harm your computer or take control of it without your permission.

Zombie Computers and Botnets

Often, a single zombie computer is part of a much larger group called a botnet. Imagine a huge army of zombie computers, all controlled by one hacker.

• Bot is short for "robot." Each zombie computer in a botnet is like a robot following orders.
• Net means network, because all these computers are connected over the Internet.

What Can Botnets Do?

Botnets are very powerful because they use the combined strength of many computers. Hackers use botnets for many bad activities:

• Sending Spam: They can send millions of unwanted emails (spam) very quickly.
• DDoS Attacks: They can flood websites with so much traffic that the websites crash. This is called a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack.
• Stealing Information: Sometimes, they can be used to steal personal information from people.

Protecting Your Computer

It's important to keep your computer safe from becoming a zombie.

• Use Antivirus Software: Install and regularly update good antivirus software. This software helps find and remove malware.
• Be Careful with Downloads: Only download files from trusted websites. Be very careful about opening attachments in emails from people you don't know.
• Keep Software Updated: Make sure your operating system (like Windows or macOS) and all your programs are always up to date. Updates often fix security weaknesses.
• Use Strong Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts.

By following these tips, you can help protect your computer from becoming a zombie and keep yourself safe online.

See also

In Spanish: Zombi (informática) para niños