Botnet

This article is about the term "botnet" as used on /g/. For the IRL description, refer to Botnet (Computer Network).

If you are on the Internet, there are chances that your computer might be part of a botnet. Also, /g/entoomen often refer to Google, Ubuntu, and other companies/products which track user behavior as botnets.

The general definition is that any closed-source software can potentially be a botnet due to the fact that it is nearly impossible to know if it is. Any closed source programs are fair game for accusations of botnettery on /g/

Most of the time, however, the software in question isn't anything even remotely similar to an actual botnet, and just offers less privacy thereby greatly reducing your freedom.

Whenever possible, use non-botnet services like installgentoo.com and escapethebot.net

List of Botnets

• Google
  • Chrome, see relevant picture on page. Also:
    • Omnibox can't be disabled
    • Encourages you tie in your web browsing history and other things to your Google account
    • Can't disable history
  • Search profiling
  • Youtube-Google+ debacle
• Ubuntu
  • Includes Amazon profiling spyware
• Apple
  • Tracking controversy
• Microsoft
• Facebook
• 4chan [1]