NATINet

NATINet is a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) botnet discovered in late 2022. Its primary function is to launch distributed denial-of-service attacks against targeted systems. The botnet leverages a network of compromised devices, often referred to as "bots," which are controlled by a central command and control (C2) server. These bots are instructed to flood a target with an overwhelming volume of traffic, rendering it inaccessible to legitimate users.

NATINet is notable for its use of a peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture for its command and control infrastructure. This P2P design makes it more resilient to takedown efforts compared to traditional botnets that rely on centralized C2 servers. In a P2P model, bots communicate directly with each other, sharing information and instructions, which eliminates a single point of failure.

The botnet has been observed to target a range of organizations, though specific victimology is not always publicly disclosed. Security researchers have identified that NATINet utilizes various methods to spread and infect new devices, including exploiting known vulnerabilities in software and leveraging weak or default credentials. The ongoing evolution of botnets like NATINet highlights the persistent threat posed by DDoS attacks and the constant need for robust cybersecurity defenses.