Communication among devices in computer networking is primarily dependent on how systems recognize and get to each other. One of the lesser known yet crucial stages of this whole process is ARP (Address Resolution Protocol). What Is ARP

No matter if your case is troubleshooting network problems or you are just gaining knowledge of the basics of data communication, learning about the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is necessary if you want to understand how local network devices can be communicating. 

What Does ARP Stand for and Why It Matters 

Let us first look at the most common question by before we dive deeper into the topic. The acronym ARP stands for Address Resolution Protocol. It is a communication protocol that maps an IP address to a physical machine address; the latter is most referred to as a MAC (Media Access Control) address. 

Each device attached to a network has two major identity markers: 

• IP Address (Logical Address): It is for identifying the device within the network. 

• MAC Address (Physical Address): A hardware address since it is assigned to the device’s network interface card (NIC). 

The Address Resolution Protocol operates as a connector between these two. It enables the devices to know each other’s hardware addresses so that data packets can be delivered to the correct destination. 

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Understanding the Meaning and Function of ARP 

To put it simply, ARP can be defined as the procedure that changes the IP address into a related MAC address. An equal situation happens when a device wants to talk to another one on the same network, it has no idea about the MAC address — only the IP. Here is when ARP protocol comes to the rescue. 

The procedure goes as follows: 

• Source device sends out an ARP request via broadcast asking, "Who is this IP address?" 

• The destination device that has that IP address sends back an ARP response that includes its MAC address. 

• The sender then adds this detail to its ARP table for later use. 

The ARP Table's Role in Networking 

The ARP table, sometimes called Address Resolution Protocol table, is a small database that each device has and maintains. It keeps track of IP addresses along with their corresponding MAC addresses. 

You can check this table by using the arp command or cmd arp on most operating systems. For example, entering arp -a in the command prompt displays all the cached ARP entries. This is useful for the administrators to confirm the network connections and solve problems with communication. 

The cached entries allow devices to avoid the repeated ARP address resolution process, thus leading to the overall increase in the network performance. 

How ARP Fits into Addressing in Network 

In the broader scope of addressing in network, Address Resolution Protocol ARP acts as a translator. The Internet Protocol (IP) handles logical addressing, while ARP takes care of physical addressing. Without it, devices wouldn’t know the hardware destination to which packets should be sent. 

The ARP protocol functions at the network layer (Layer 3) and interacts closely with the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. This interaction ensures accurate data delivery within a LAN. 

Common ARP Commands and How They’re Used 

The ARP command is a valuable tool for network engineers. It helps display, add, or remove entries from the ARP table. Common ARP commands include: 

• arp -a: Displays all current ARP entries. 

• arp -d: Deletes a specific entry. 

• arp -s: Adds a static entry manually. 

Using these commands, you can analyze the protocol ARP interactions and verify how your devices are resolving addresses. 

Understanding ARP Attacks and Security Concerns 

The Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is crucial in the communication process, but at the same time, it is one of the main sources of malicious activities. ARP attacks, commonly known as ARP spoofing or ARP poisoning, occur when a hacker alters ARP tables to gain access to the network traffic or change it. 

During an ARP attack, the attacker broadcasts falsified ARP messages within a local area network (LAN). As a result, the attacker’s MAC address gets associated with the IP address of a legitimate device, usually a router. After getting linked, the hacker can listen in, take confidential data, or send harmful packets to the network. 

To identify such attacks, network monitoring teams commonly make use of an ARP sniffer, which is a detection tool that alerts them by monitoring the data traffic and look for unusual address resolutions. 

Preventing ARP Attacks 

The process of making your ARP networking environment secure would involve realizing the following measures as the best practices: 

• Maintain static ARP entries for the key systems. 

• Activate Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI) on switches to verify ARP packets. 

• Keep watching your address resolution protocol table for irregularities on a regular basis. 

• Utilize encryption protocols such as SSL/TLS to achieve data security. 

Apart from that, organizations can rely on threat intelligence tools like Cyble Vision to gain insights about the malicious infrastructure that is targeting the digital ecosystem. This timely detection helps in identifying suspicious activities related to ARP attacks before they cause any disruption in the operations. 

ARP spoofing often goes unnoticed — until data starts disappearing. See how exposed your network really is before it’s too late.  

Real-World Example of ARP Functionality 

Imagine a typical office local area network (LAN) installation. Your laptop which is connected to the network and sends a print command to the printer knows only the IP address of the printer. The laptop then carries out an ARP address resolution to determine the MAC address of the printer. The data packets are then sent to the printer directly flowing through the stored information in the ARP table and that is why no further lookups are needed after this exchange. 

Address Resolution Protocol would leave your laptop in the dark as far as identifying the printer’s location to send the print job — even though both devices are on the same network. 

ARP and Network Troubleshooting 

Knowledge of Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is very important for the network administrators that it is the main tool for their first step to analyzing connectivity problems. Clearing and rechecking the ARP table is often the solution when a device cannot talk to another one. 

Besides, keeping an eye on duplicate IPs or incorrect ARP entries is a good practice that maintains network security by making it difficult for spoofing attacks to take place and at the same time ensuring that there is smooth communication on the network. 

What Is the Role of Media Access Control in ARP? 

The Media Access Control (MAC) address plays an extremely important role in ARP. It is a unique serial number that is given to every network interface card. When the ARP protocol is resolving an IP to a MAC, it is basically locating the media access control address that is representing the device physically on the network. 

This entire mechanism is very important for making local communication possible as it involves converting logical addressing into physical reachability. 

Conclusion 

The Address Resolution Protocol does not receive as much attention as other technologies, but it is the silent partner in facilitating communication between devices. The process of resolving IP addresses to packet delivery, ARP still plays an important role in managing the routing systems so that every connected system is aware of the direction of its data. 

Moreover, being aware of the weaknesses associated with ARP attacks and keeping your ARP table updated are vital for a secure network. Organizations are equipped with the ability to protect their networks with accuracy through the use of advanced intelligence tools like Cyble Vision, which grant deeper insight into potential threats. 

Think your network devices are talking safely? Run a quick check with Cyble to uncover what’s really happening behind the scenes.

FAQ Abouts What Is ARP 

Why is ARP important?

ARP is essential because devices must know each other's MAC addresses to deliver data packets on a local network, ensuring smooth communication.

What is an ARP table?

An ARP table is a stored list of IP-to-MAC address mappings that a device uses to quickly identify other devices on the network.

What is an ARP request and ARP reply?

An ARP request is a broadcast message asking, “Who has this IP address?” The device with that IP responds with an ARP reply containing its MAC address.

What are common ARP attacks?

Common ARP attacks include ARP spoofing and ARP poisoning, where attackers send fake ARP messages to intercept or redirect network traffic.

The post What Is ARP (Address Resolution Protocol)? Complete Overview 2026 appeared first on Cyble.

Are you one of those who have had their browsing experience constantly interrupted by the emergence of a string of pop-up ads? Well, in all odds, you have met Adware. It is possible that at first, it may not seem like a big deal, but Adware can lead to thorough invasions of your privacy and security problems. Being aware of it, its operation, and methods of removal will help in the safety of your gadgets and sensitive data. 

The Meaning of Adware and Its Functionality 

The meaning of Adware is very clear-cut — it is a computer program that in most cases shows or downloads undesired advertisements automatically and often without the user's consent. Usually, Adware is associated with no-cost applications or software downloads and installs silently in the background. 

After installation, Adware monitors your web activities, gathering data like the sites you visit, your searches, and sometimes even your location. This data is then used for serving you “personalized” ads — or even worse, selling it to advertisers and other parties without your being aware of it. 

Some Adware may be annoying but not harmful by only showing pop-up ads while other types might bring Kaspersky Adware malware or advertising spy software in which case the threats would be, for instance, slowing down the computer, taking over the browser, and breaching the privacy. 

Get a Quick Cyble Demo and Learn How to Detect Threats Before They Strike  

Types of Adware and What You Should Look Out For  

Adware exists in a variety of forms, from basic software that generates pop-ups to far more advanced ad spyware that embeds itself in your operating system. Here are a few examples:  

• Freeware Adware- software that claims to be free while also silently bundling advertising modules.  

• Browser Hijackers- programs that take control of your homepage or search engine settings to generate ad revenue.  

• Mobile Adware- apps that frequently provide ads or redirect you to rogue web locations.  

• System-Level Adware- more challenging to remove; these programs embed themselves deep in your operating system and require professional assistance to remove.  

One example frequently referenced in the literature is Adware Phoenix Invicta, a very persistent form of adware that installs through malicious applications or compromised software downloads and/or installs as a browser extension. It is known for aggressive pop-ups and stealthily collecting user data while on your computer. 

Understanding Malicious Ads and their Risks. 

So, what is the meaning of malicious ads? These are harmful online ads that have malware or redirect users to phishing sites. Adware is the usual delivery component of baggage malicious ads leading to dangerous downloads or exposure to phishing scams. 

Most people see Adware as annoying; however, it can lead to worse consequences. Attackers deploy adware malware to steal personally identifiable information or financial information, change browser settings, install more malware or ransomware, or track users' behavior across websites.  

Even ads that look legitimate can be malicious. By clicking the ad, it is possible that the legitimate appearing ad will cause more intrusive software to be installed or give access to files with sensitive information. 

Adware and Mobile Devices: A Growing Concern 

It is no longer just computers. Adware is increasing in prevalence on smartphones as well. Android users especially have seen increased reporting of mobile advertising infections. It is important to be familiar with the process of cleaning adware on Android devices. 

Common symptoms include: 

• Ads appearing on lock screens and in notification panels. 

• Poor performance or heating issues. 

• Apps installing on a mobile device without user decision. 

Once you see these signs, it is time to clean adware, whether manually or through the use of trusted adware cleaning programs or professional adware cleaning software. 

See Why Global Security Teams Trust Cyble — Book Your Demo Now 

How to Block Adware and Protect Your Devices 

The following steps will help you decrease your risk and carry out the adware blocking process effectively: 

• Cautiousness with Free Downloads: A number of adware removal programs caution that no-cost software generally comes with advertising modules attached. Always make sure you are downloading from the original websites. 

• Use of an Ad Blocker: Get the concept of ad blocker which is a browser tool that stops the loading of unwanted advertisements thus making the browsing experience faster and safer. 

• Avoid Clicking on Ads that are Probably Untrustworthy: Websites with bad intentions could be hiding behind them even if these ads seem not to be dangerous. 

• Keep Software Updated: Systems that are not up to date have a higher chance of contracting ad ware. 

• Reliable Security Solutions Installation: Comprehensive tools for adware protection can not only detect but also eliminate the intruder before it spreads. 

How to Get Rid of Adware after Its Installation? 

If you are already suffering from aggressive pop-ups, follow these steps to stop adware from inflicting more damage: 

• Opt for trusted adware removal tools: Many trustworthy adware software programs are available that concentrate on eliminating the hidden advertising components. 

• Conduct a complete system scan: It reveals the presence of adware, malware, and advertising spywares instantly. 

• Uninstall dubious applications: This is particularly true of mobile devices where the rogue apps might be hiding behind even useful or entertaining apparences. 

• Restore your browser: It will remove any extensions if they are injected and set default settings again. 

It is possible to manually remove adware, but this usually demands technical knowledge. Removal of adware through the use of an approved application is quicker and less risky. 

Reasons for Persistence of Adware 

You might think that 'if Adware is such a nuisance, why does it continue to exist?' The reply to this question is the advertising revenue. A lot of developers integrate ads in their apps to create a revenue stream from “free” products. Although a few Adware might be seriously harmful, the distinction between the legitimate ads and the adword is frequently blurred. 

This is the reason privacy-conscious users use adware privacy solutions or specialized protection tools to have control over their data. 

Conclusion 

Organizations and individuals need more than just antivirus tools — they need visibility into emerging threats. Platforms like Cyble offer advanced intelligence capabilities to identify malicious campaigns, including Adware-based threats, before they impact users. 

By continuously monitoring the dark web and digital ecosystems, Cyble helps uncover adware malware campaigns targeting businesses and consumers alike. 

If you are looking to strengthen your defenses and identify hidden threats, you can request a Cyble demo to see how Cyble works in real-world scenarios. 

By learning what Adware is, how it operates, and how to remove it, you can reclaim control over your digital environment — and your privacy. 

The post What Is Adware? Learn to Stop Malicious Pop-Ups and Ads appeared first on Cyble.

Although cyberthreats are constantly changing, few are as persistent and cunning as the Trojan Horse Virus. Like the fabled wooden horse from ancient mythology, a Trojan Horse may appear harmless at first, but once it enters your system, it may unleash hidden threats that could steal, spy on, or destroy your data. 

This post will explain what a Trojan Horse virus is, how it operates, and easy ways to identify and prevent it before it infects your devices. 

What Is a Trojan Horse Virus? 

A Trojan Horse virus is a specific type of malware that tricks users into thinking it is doing something different from its true intent. Unlike a standard computer virus, it does not duplicate itself on its own. A Trojan Horse virus uses social engineering, to get users to install the malware willingly.  

Once the Trojan Horse virus has infiltrated your system, it can:  

• Steal login information or financial information  

• Alter or delete system files - Monitor user activities  

• Create a backdoor so hackers can access the device remotely.  

Simply put, a Trojan Horse Virus is a concealed danger pretending to be something you trust, like a free app, a software update, or an email attachment. 

Common Types of Trojan Viruses 

The Trojan Horse Virus, which is a virtual virus, has various appearances, all of which serve different purposes for the attacker. The following is a list of some of the most common varieties: 

• Backdoor Trojans: These are the ones that enable the attackers to remotely operate your computer by creating illegitimate access points into your system. They are usually utilized for data theft or for the purpose of installing other malware. 

• Banking Trojans: These are malware specifically developed to acquire not only the financial credentials but also the payment info of the users when they access banking or e-commerce websites. 

• Rootkit Trojans: A rootkit directly penetrates the system and hides in such a way that it is almost impossible to detect it. It gives the attacker everlasting access to the compromised device. 

• Trojan Bots: These turn the devices that are under attack into bots that are part of a network. They are often used for large-scale DDoS (Distributed Denial-of-Service) attacks or crypto-mining. Trojan Bot Solana, a recent case, is an example where the target is cryptocurrency wallets. 

• Downloader Trojans: The primary purpose of these types of Trojans is to upload other malware or adware onto a victim’s device, thereby gradually worsening the infection. 

• Fake Software Trojans: These get the identifiers of antivirus software, free games, or updates and thus attract users to download them. 

How a Trojan Horse Virus Works 

The recognition of the infection procedure gives users the opportunity to spot the warning signs before it is too late. The Trojan Horse Virus usually follows the scheme: 

• Delivery: The malware is delivered in the form of a trusted file, email attachment, or link to download. 

• Execution: The victim unwittingly activates the Trojan Horse Virus by installing or opening the file. 

• Activation: As soon as it is activated, it establishes a connection with the remote command-and-control (C2) server, where the hackers can give commands or take data. 

• Propagation and Persistence: The Trojan doesn’t spread by itself like a virus; however, it will often leave behind traces of additional components or hidden entries in the system to stay undetected. 

The virus's stealthy nature makes it extremely harmful. It is able to conceal itself within the entire spectrum of legitimate processes, even conducting anti-detection measures with the use of obfuscation techniques and encryption. 

Signs of a Trojan Infection 

The earlier you can identify and remove a Trojan Horse Virus, the better off you’ll be. Look for these warning signs: 

• Slow system performance or crashing often 

• Unknown software in the background 

• Odd network behavior or sudden increase in data usage 

• Disabled security tools 

• Unexpected pop-ups or redirects 

It is possible that your system is infected with a trojan, so I think you should maybe check for malware. 

How to Protect Yourself from a Trojan Horse Virus 

Here are practical steps to safeguard your devices and data from a Trojan Horse Virus: 

1. Avoid Suspicious Downloads: Never download software or email attachments from unverified sources. 

2. Use Strong Endpoint Protection: Deploy a reliable security solution that can detect and remove Trojans, rootkits, and other threats in real time. 

3. Update Regularly: Outdated software often contains vulnerabilities that Trojans exploit. Keep your system and applications updated. 

4. Monitor Network Traffic: Be alert to abnormal data flows or unauthorized connections — common indicators of Trojan Horse Virus activity. 

5. Educate Users: Since Trojans rely on deception, user awareness remains one of the strongest defenses. 

Cyble’s Role in Detecting and Responding to Trojan Threats 

Cyble’s threat detection capabilities extend to identifying malicious behaviors associated with the Trojan Horse Virus and related malware families. Its advanced Threat Intelligence and monitoring tools help organizations uncover and neutralize hidden threats before they cause damage. 

By integrating insights from global threat feeds and dark web monitoring, Cyble enables security teams to detect trojan-related campaigns, including specific variants such as Trojan.Agent.Win32.4270125, and respond swiftly. While Cyble’s solutions are comprehensive, the focus remains on providing visibility and context — not just alerts — so teams can act effectively and prevent reinfection. 

Trojan Horse Virus vs. Other Malware 

To understand the Trojan Horse Virus, it’s helpful to know how it differs from other malicious software. 

While “malware meaning” covers all these categories collectively, the Trojan Horse Virus stands out for its cunning disguise and reliance on human error. 

Conclusion 

The Trojan Horse Virus brings out a significant point: appearances are sometimes deceptive. The Trojans were no different from today's unsuspecting users who often grant access to cyber attackers, the former welcoming a gift that ended in their downfall while the latter just being unaware of the danger they are in. 

People and organizations alike can protect themselves with the knowledge of the Trojan Horse meaning, the ability to spot suspicious activities, and the use of clever detection solutions. Keep in mind - knowledge is the most powerful weapon against trickery  

The post What Is Trojan Horse Virus – Spot It Before It Infects You 2026 appeared first on Cyble.

Dark Web Telegram Groups aren’t quite the Wild West for hacktivists and cybercriminals that they were a little over a year ago, but it’s still an important source of cyber threat intelligence for researchers and cybersecurity teams alike.

Since the introduction of AI-based moderation in 2024, Telegram now routinely blocks more than 100,000 groups and channels a day that violate its Terms of Service. That can make tracking threat actors particularly challenging, as their channels can – and do – change frequently. In fact, several threat groups researched for this article have had their channels shut down or moved. 

With that as background information, here are some of the more stable Telegram groups and channels that should be of interest to security pros. Several offer very good threat intelligence, while others may be more interesting for the insight they offer into the mindset of actors. 

One caveat: Many of these channels and groups publish raw data taken directly from threat actor claims, and as such they should be viewed with skepticism unless verified. That’s where dark web researchers earn their keep, by assessing which claims and threat groups are valid and reliable enough to be taken seriously. Raw data is rarely of much use to security teams unless enriched and prioritized to give it meaning and context. 

So, let’s have a look at these telegram groups. Below are 11 dark web Telegram groups and channels that all cybersecurity professionals should keep an eye on. 

11 Dark Web Telegram Groups to Lookout for

In this list, the first four Telegram channels are more of an information sharing and threat intel Wikipedia that will give you a slice of the raw data that threat intelligence researchers and platforms work with. 

1- Dark Monitor

This is one of the most active cybersecurity-related channels on Telegram. In fact, the constant stream of threat intelligence research, CVEs, ransomware victims and more makes it a little TMI – and a good argument in favor of AI-powered threat intelligence platforms that can sift through and prioritize all that data and more for you.

2- Data Leak Monitor 

2. This is even more TMI than Dark Monitor, at times posting several new data leak detections a minute. But with more than 25,000 subscribers, the channel clearly has a devoted audience that finds the information useful. 

3- Daily Dark Web

This telegram group is a little more manageable. The channel posts roughly five to 10 digests of ransomware and data breach victims daily, culled from sources like threat group claims on data leak sites.

4- Ransomlook

This dark web intelligence Telegram group posts roughly 20 ransomware victims a day. If you want to see who’s allegedly been hit, it will give you the names and basic claim info briefly.

Of the threat groups active on Telegram, hacktivists are the most interesting to follow because they combine cyberattacks with ideological messaging – and they’re not trying to blackmail victims so they typically release all the data they have. So, let’s have a look at the Telegram groups and channels of the top-most active threat actors on this social messaging application.

5- NoName057(16)'

Russia-linked NoName057(16) is the most active hacktivist group – and, as such, the group frequently needs to move to a new channel. The group’s current English-language Telegram username is only about 10 days old, yet posts several new victims a day.

6- Z-Pentest

It is one of the more interesting hacktivist groups to be found on Telegram – although members posting videos of themselves tampering with critical infrastructure control panels might be more scary than interesting. Still, the group has been at the forefront of hacktivist groups that have been moving away from the more traditional DDoS attacks and website defacements and into more destructive areas like data breaches and unauthorized access.

7- IT Army of Ukraine

This group has been one of the more stable hacktivist channels, with 115,000 followers. A good source for information on pro-Ukraine hacktivist activity and has been highly active since the beginning of the Kremlin’s invasion.

8- Ghost Princess

This threat actor channel describes themselves as a journalist and activist, and is a good source for information on Middle Eastern region hacktivist attacks as well as pro-Palestinian political perspectives.

9- RipperSec

This is another pro-Palestinian group on Telegram, and a source for information on hacktivists’ cyber activities. On the day this article was written, the group shared 10 documents allegedly stolen from Israel Defense Forces.

10- Cyber Security – Information Security – IT Security

With over 52,000 members, this interactive group fosters real-time discussions among security experts on: emerging threats; best practices; incident response tactics. A good place to network and exchange intelligence.

11- Threat Intelligence Sharing

Boasting 2,000+ members, this group encourages collaboration among threat researchers. It also connects to related groups focused on:

• SOC operations
• Malware analysis
• Reverse engineering
• Incident response

It’s a hub for crowdsourced cyber defense knowledge.

Stay Ahead of Telegram-Based Threats

Monitoring dark web Telegram groups has become essential for cybersecurity teams looking to stay ahead of emerging threats. These channels offer valuable early warning signals about data breaches, planned attacks, and new exploit techniques. However, the ephemeral nature of these groups, combined with their frequent shutdowns and migrations, makes manual monitoring extremely challenging and resource-intensive.

How Cyble Can Help

Cyble's threat intelligence platform provides comprehensive monitoring of dark web Telegram channels and groups, enabling security teams to track threat actors without the manual overhead. Through automated collection and AI-powered analysis, Cyble continuously monitors thousands of threat-related Telegram channels, identifying relevant threats specific to your organization.

The platform contextualizes raw data from these groups, filtering out noise and delivering actionable intelligence about credential leaks, planned attacks, and emerging vulnerabilities. With real-time alerts and detailed threat actor profiles, Cyble helps security teams transform dark web chatter into proactive defense measures, ensuring you're always one step ahead of cybercriminals operating in the Telegram ecosystem.

The post 11 Dark Web Telegram Groups Cybersecurity Teams Should Monitor  appeared first on Cyble.

The pace at which the internet operates has grown incredibly fast; much of this speed and efficiency is the result of bot software. It is estimated that bots constitute nearly half of all online traffic, which makes bots an important - albeit invisible - aspect of our digital lives.  

While bots are useful, powerful tools, they are also a double-edged sword. Many bots enhance our lives by making information accessible and our services efficient and seamless, whereas others are designed to mislead, interfere, or launch attacks against us.  

So, what is a bot? This understanding can help us discern between helpful actors and harmful threats in the complex, modern digital space.  

What is a Bot? 

When you ask, “What is a bot?” think of it as a software program written to carry out large volumes or repetitive tasks, presumably more quickly and effectively than a human can. Bots are most effective when running actions that require speed, consistency, or constant repetition. Bots can be found managing website indexing for search engines, handling customer service inquiries, or transferring data in many instances out of your view. 

In the simplest terms, a bot is written to follow defined steps to complete some tasks. More sophisticated bots utilize artificial intelligence where they can learn and adapt their behavior to accomplish their task, like organizing online information or, in bad cases, spamming comments and causing overload. 

The Good Bots: The Do-Gooder Bots 

These bots serve legitimate purposes and help automate tasks, improve productivity, or enhance user experience.

• Chatbots – Engage with users in natural language, answering questions or assisting with tasks.
• Web Crawlers (Spiders) – Automatically browse and index web pages for search engines or data collection.
• E-commerce Bots (price alerts, not scalping) – Track product prices and availability, alerting users to deals.
• Email Bots – Automate email responses, filtering, and scheduling to streamline communication.
• Monitoring Bots – Observe systems, websites, or networks for performance, uptime, or changes.
• API Bots – Interact with APIs to fetch, post, or manage data automatically.
• Security Bots – Detect threats, scan for vulnerabilities, and enhance cybersecurity operations.
• SEO Bots – Analyze websites for optimization, keyword performance, and ranking improvements.
• Customer Service Bots – Provide 24/7 support through chat or messaging platforms.
• Transaction Bots – Facilitate secure online payments, transfers, or digital purchases.
• Search Bots – Retrieve and organize information from databases or the web efficiently.
• Analytics Bots – Gather and interpret data to produce insights and reports.
• Utility Bots – Handle repetitive or functional tasks like reminders, conversions, or data entry.
• Marketing Bots (ethical automation) – Automate campaigns, engagement, and analytics without spamming.
• Healthcare Bots – Assist patients with symptom checks, appointments, or health information.
• Banking Bots – Help users manage accounts, check balances, and perform simple transactions.
• Messaging Bots – Operate within chat platforms to deliver information or automate responses.
• AI-Powered Bots – Use advanced AI to learn, adapt, and respond intelligently to complex inputs.
• News Bots – Curate, summarize, and deliver news updates from various sources.
• Educational Bots – Support learning through quizzes, tutoring, and personalized lessons.
• Data Mining Bots (ethical data use) – Extract structured insights from large datasets responsibly.
• Threat Intelligence Bots (like Cyble CTI) – Collect and analyze cyber threat data for proactive defense.
• Automation Bots – Streamline workflows by automating repetitive digital processes.
• Voice Bots – Interact via speech recognition and natural language understanding.
• Travel Bots – Help users book flights, hotels, and plan itineraries.
• Knowledge Bots – Provide factual information or reference material on demand.
• Compliance Bots – Monitor processes to ensure adherence to laws and regulations.
• Bug/Test Bots – Automate software testing, detect bugs, and generate reports.
• Legal Bots – Assist with document creation, legal research, and case management.
• Recruitment Bots – Screen candidates, schedule interviews, and assist in talent acquisition.
• Translation Bots – Convert text or speech across multiple languages in real time.
• Notification Bots – Send timely alerts, reminders, or updates to users.
• Sentiment Analysis Bots – Analyze emotions and opinions in text or social media content.

The Bad Bots  

As we move further down the spectrum, we encounter the bad bots. Bad bots are designed to exploit systems, whether financially, deceitfully, or through terms of service violations, and do so without permission. This can lead to significant financial and reputational harm to the victimized organization. When we consider a bot designed to do harm, we think of those that manipulate the underlying processes of the system unfairly. 

• Social Media Bots (spam, fake engagement) – Generate fake likes, comments, or followers to manipulate social media metrics and public opinion.
• Scraper Bots (unauthorized data extraction) – Illegally collect or copy data from websites without permission, violating terms of service.
• Human-Impersonation Bots – Mimic real users online to deceive others, spread misinformation, or commit fraud.
• Ad Bots (click fraud) – Artificially inflate ad clicks or impressions, stealing advertising revenue and corrupting analytics.
• Spy Bots (privacy violations) – Secretly gather personal or corporate information, breaching privacy and data protection laws.
• Content Bots (plagiarism, fake news) – Auto-generate or duplicate articles to spread misinformation, spam, or plagiarized content.
• Scam Bots (social engineering) – Trick users into revealing sensitive data or making fraudulent transactions.
• Gaming Bots (unfair advantages) – Automate gameplay actions to cheat, farm rewards, or gain an edge over human players.
• Ticketing Bots (ticket scalping) – Buy up large volumes of event tickets instantly for resale at inflated prices.
• Aggregator Bots (if used unethically) – Compile data from multiple sources without consent, often misusing or reselling the information.

The Dangerous Bots 

The riskiest bots are those that can cause a major security risk and harm, either individually, corporately, or to national infrastructure on a larger scale. Knowing and understanding the risk in what a bot is can save you millions in damages and downtime.  

• Malicious Bots – Designed to disrupt systems, steal data, or perform unauthorized actions for harmful purposes.
• DDoS Bots – Overwhelm servers or networks with massive traffic to cause downtime or service disruption.
• Dark Web Bots – Operate within hidden networks to trade illegal goods, data, or services.
• Spy Bots (when used for espionage) – Collect confidential information from organizations or individuals for surveillance or cyber espionage.
• Scam Bots (phishing or crypto scams) – Impersonate trusted entities to steal credentials, crypto assets, or personal information.
• Anti-Malware Bots (if weaponized, otherwise good) – Normally used for protection, but can be repurposed to disable legitimate defenses or spread malware.
• Human-Impersonation Bots (identity theft use) – Steal identities or mimic real people online to commit fraud or manipulation.

Protecting Your Digital Perimeter 

In a scenario where nearly half of all traffic is accounted for by bots, the importance of digital security cannot be overstated. The distinction between a flourishing online business and one devastated by a DDoS attack is often grounded in the quality of its bot management and security procedures. 

To get rid of the evil side of what a bot is, organizations rely on multi-layered defenses: 

• CAPTCHA: The most basic defense line, which necessitates users to complete a straightforward human-verification test to identify themselves as humans rather than automated programs. 

• Web Application Firewalls (WAF): Serve as a barrier, scrutinizing the reception traffic and intercepting the suspicious patterns typical of bot activity before they can reach the main server. 

• Anti-Bot Solutions: These cutting-edge instruments leverage machine learning and digital fingerprinting to recognize the subtle non-human behavioral traits—like very fast clicking or constant 24/7 presence—and in real-time, they thwart the attacks. 

Businesses that are faced with advanced threats must implement strong cybersecurity strategies. A Cyble Solution can provide everyday digital risk protection from mentions of your company, exposed credentials, and potential threats on the surface, deep, and dark web. This is an important tool to supplement proactive security measures.  

It’s also important to know what a bot on your network is and how to control it, to maintain security while providing a good user experience. You should always keep all software and systems updated because outdated software creates vulnerabilities that dangerous bots are actively looking for to exploit. 

Conclusion  

The efficiency of search engine crawlers compared to the coordinated danger of botnets gives the relevant question multiple layers of complexity. Bots are the engine of today’s internet, but their duality presents challenges that warrant alertness. For the site owner, the difficulties rests in differentiating between the helpful bots that create a higher level of service and the malicious bots that intend to hurt.  

At the end of the day, what is a bot? A piece of software that is a reflection of the intent of the programmer, the good and the bad. As technology shifts to favor higher levels of automation in support of society, the distinction between helpful automation and nefarious automation will become even murkier. Such a state will make sound detection and defences even more important to guard against future threats and help protect our digital future. 

The post What Is a Bot? Good, Bad, and Dangerous Types Explained 2026 appeared first on Cyble.

In an era where we are rarely without our cells, cybercriminals have come up with a new way to dupe us — by sending text messages. You might have heard of phishing — and now there's a new term for it — smishing. What is smishing, you may ask? Smishing just means phishing via SMS. Instead of receiving suspicious emails, cybercriminals are sending text messages to bait victims to either confirm personal information or by clicking on malicious links. 

For example, you receive a text that states, "Your bank account has been locked. Click here to confirm your detail." The link may look official or even have your bank's logo. Unfortunately, many click out of panic, and this is how we get caught up in a smishing scam. 

The Increasing Incidence of Smishing in 2026

In 2026 we’ve seen a major increase in smishing and phishing schemes, and attack vectors. Attackers have become savvier by using AI to create messages blended with deepfake technology to make scams more personal. Just last week an instance involved a finance employee in Hong Kong joined a Zoom call with what appeared to be his CFO and team - just to find out later it was all fake. The deepfake video and AI voice deceived him into transferring $25 million. 

Imagine similar technology on smishing texts. Attackers can easily spoof phone numbers and create legitimate messages and then add generative AI to recreate the tone and writing style of trusted contacts. It’s beyond predatory links in text and is now a personal form of deception that feels close to (if not convincing) human interaction. 

Smishing Texts Commonly Seen 

• One of the ways to induce smishing is through: 

• Delivery notifications: “Your delivery has arrived. Click here to book a time.” 

• Bank notifications: “Some strange transactions have been detected in your account. Confirm now.” 

• Tax notices: “Your refund is under review. Give us your info today.” 

• Streaming services: “Did not receive your payment for Netflix. Update your card details.” 

A simple scenario would be receiving a message informing you that your electricity is about to be cut off because of an overdue bill and asking you to pay immediately. You are in a hurry, so you unsuspectingly click on the link and provide your credit card information, and in a flash, your bank account has been emptied. That is how smishing schemes take advantage of urgency and fear. 

Smishing and Phishing — Are They the Same? 

Both, when applied are deceptive, but the major distinction between the two comes down to the source. Phishing usually occurs through emails, whereas mobile users are the main target of smishing. Still, the overall aim is the same — to take data, cash, or both. 

Interestingly, present-day hackers engage in a mixed-up manner. They may start with smishing messages then follow up with vishing calls or emails, thereby forming complex attacks that are more difficult to detect. 

Why Smishing Works 

Smishing works primarily due to its over-all outlook as a flower of luxury. In giving out the messages from friends, family, or reliable brands we get mentally conditioned. The culprits are very much aware of this psychological trigger. 

A text gives the impression of being urgent, concise, and sometimes harmless. People who get emails that many now scrutinize very closely still think that SMS messages are authentic and real. 

The AI mixed in fraud can be even more confusing and tormenting. Over and above that, criminals can now execute thousands of fake smishing attacks in a short span of time, with each message being personalized according to your place, your daily activities, or your recent internet usage. 

The Growing Impact of Mobile-Based Scams 

Recent cybersecurity statistics have shown that in 2024 alone, there were over 38 million phishing attacks around the world. In the beginning of 2026, approximately a million new phishing sites came up, many of which were connected to mobile-based attacks. The biggest portion was made up of invoice-themed scams — about one-third of the phishing emails contained fake payment notifications. 

The trend is quite clear, and it reconfirms that smishing is not only a nuisance that comes occasionally but also a major cyber threat. The global trend of mobile banking and online transactions has raised the risk factor significantly. 

Protecting Yourself and Your Organization 

The starting point for detecting smishing attacks is awareness. If you feel that a message you receive is urgent, prioritize precaution and do not immediately click links. Rather, go directly to the primary website or app instead of using the indicated number or link in the text. 

Organizations also need increased protective measures. This is when an investment in a Dark Web Monitoring Solution will come in handy. Many of the stolen credentials or personal information leveraged in smishing attacks originate from data breach compromises – often happening on the dark web first. If your organization is monitoring these boards and forums under the radar, the organization at minimum would know once company information is starting to surface and faster can respond to a potential threat prior to the criminals taking further steps. 

In addition to this, deploying a strong Threat Intelligence Product will provide your organization the ability to identify and monitor attack campaigns in real-time versus seeing the impacts of those attacks after the fact. Synergistically, including a CSMP Tool and Attack Surface Protection Solution(s) will help you continuously secure cloud infrastructure and your external surfaces to enable enhanced advanced threat protection for your organization without having a compromised aspect or weakness for an attacker to exploit. 

Cyble’s Role in Tackling Smishing Threats 

Cyble takes a comprehensive approach to threat management. Through its Dark Web Monitoring Solution, the company applies machine learning and natural language processing to probe the most concealed online marketplaces and forums, thus establishing connections between the rising threats and the would-be victims. Consequently, organizations are able to promptly risk-assess and implement measures that could stop the smishing or other hacking via social engineering attacks. 

In addition, the Cyble's Cyber Threat Intelligence Platform offers an in-depth visibility not only into the enemy's moves but also their entire arsenal. It is only through this platform that organizations can monitor the activities of the hackers and set the right priorities for mitigating the risks. The CASB tool from Cyble also acts as security for cloud-based systems by guaranteeing constant compliance and the early detection of any weaknesses — this has become very important since working from home and using mobile devices have become the way of life. 

The combination of these products makes Third Party Cybersecurity Solutions even stronger and assists companies in not only spotting but also forecasting the threats — those that are even linked to an innocuous text message at the beginning will not escape detection. 

Conclusion 

Cybercrime continues to grow, and smishing scams are an example of how quickly attackers can modify their attacks based on our habits. While we continue to lean on the convenience of our mobile devices for urgent tasks — such as banking or purchasing — trust in text messaging will only remain a risk. 

Therefore, the next time you get an urgent or too-good-to-be-true text message, remember to pause before responding. Cybercriminals are counting on you to react with impulse at that moment, and your best defense is consideration. 

In 2026 and onward, you will also need to combine user awareness with smart technology to stay secure — such as a Dark Web Monitoring Solution, Threat Intelligence Product, and Attack Surface Protection Solutions — in a world where your smartphone's inbox can't be trusted. 

The post What Is Smishing? Don’t Fall for These Rising Text Message Scams  appeared first on Cyble.