What does Zombie mean?
A computer connected to the Internet that can be used to perform malicious tasks under remote direction.
Hackers, viruses and other malware can compromise a computer connected to the Internet so the computer can be directed remotely to perform malicious tasks, such as:
- Corrupt or destroy data on the infected computer.
- Steal data from the infected computer.
- Spy on the user’s activities on the infected computer.
- Mine cryptocurrencies.
- Store or relay illegal content.
- Use the Local Area Network (LAN) attached to the infected computer to install backdoors, ransomware, or other malware on connected computers and devices.
- Spy on the LAN attached to an infected computer.
The Importance of a Blockchain Alternative
Traditional cybersecurity methods, such as firewalls and passwords, are being attacked in increasingly sophisticated ways that pose serious threats to centralized databases. Decentralized blockchain databases and blockchain-based applications provide new tools to protect the existence and safeguard the integrity of data.
Used in a Sentence
Most owners of zombie computers are unaware their system is compromised.
Last Updated: March 21, 2021