Zombie

Definition: A Zombie is a computer whose operating system and resources have been compromised by an outside an intruder. As a result, “control” over the computer has been passed to an unauthorized third party. Privately owned machines become part of what is known as a “bot net”. Thousands of compromised machines and remotely controlled computing devices can be put to use to attack other information systems and cause damage.

Its Relevance: Critical infrastructure owners can have their computers and networks unwittingly used to attack and cause damage to other information systems. Every organization must have information security policies and practice due diligence. Failure to do so can be considered negligent and the organization could find itself facing liability lawsuits. Millions could be lost; The organization must have information security policies designed to prevent such loss of control.  Network infrastructure might even be subject to what is known as "downstream liability:.

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