Millions of computers worldwide have become part of a large-scale botnet. This became possible because users installed free, rogue VPN apps with a backdoor. The US FBI is now explaining how users can remove the software.
Anyone who installed one of the VPN apps MaskVPN, DewVPN, PaladinVPN, ProxyGate, ShieldVPN and ShineVPN was made part of the 911 S5 proxybotnet. The VPN services included illegally downloaded video games and software. After installing the software, the VPN app was also secretly installed. In addition, the apps were offered via the internet and thus installed by users. The computer in question could be included in the botnet via the back door.
According to the FBI, 911 S5 was one of the largest botnets in the world. The botnet consisted of more than 19 million compromised IP addresses from more than 190 countries. In total, the botnet has caused at least billions of dollars in damage.
The US Department of Justice has arrested the alleged administrator of the botnet and taken the botnet offline. However, the software still remains on infected computers. The FBI therefore shares explanations and advice on identifying and removing the VPN apps.
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