Bots (newb)

[Pinkerton]

What are bots, and how are they used? is it script?

Why would anyone need an "irc bot"?wouldn't that just be spam?

If I don't know what a bot or script is, does that mean it is so over my head that i should not even bother to ask?

I am currently researching the whole issue, but I thought I should ask anyway.

[mist]

you're covering a few different types of bots.

firstly there are bots which are designed to play planetarion. these log in and run one or more accounts so that the human bot runner can use them later, say for defence or to attack someone as an escort. needless to say these are against pa rules, the multi hunters will be looking for them etc etc.

secondly there are bots in a wider sense. these are generally insecure computers (generally running windows) which have been trojaned. these bots can be used to route internet traffic, in order to launder ip addresses (used to send spam mail amongst other things) or can be used to provide extra bandwidth (in order to aid in ddos attacks). these are actually illegal.

about the only time they'd be likely to interact is if someone were to use the illegal kind to launder their ip, so that the multi hunters couldn't catch them.

-mist

[mist]

oops, missed irc bots.

irc bots are often how a drone network of bots is controled. the 'owner' joins a channel full of them and uses commands in the channel to make them do things.

you're probably asking this question 'cus of the bot attacks on netgamers last night. in that case, the idea was to flood the network with spam. this, or dossing, is sometimes (often?) done to alliance irc servers, so that they can't organise defence, and several members of the community seem to have gained reputations for doing it. however it's not that common on netgamers, my guess would be some pimply lil kid who's 'girlfriend' dumped them, or someone equally pathetic

-mist

[Gerbie]

Yes IRC bots are scripts.
Bots can be used for various purposes. You can have bots that are usefull for attacks: you can use them in an attack channel where people can reserve a target. Or you have bots to support you in organizing defence. If you are over your head then why stop. If you like scripts and bots then experiment with them and try to find people that can help you.