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SSHStalker Botnet Uses IRC C2 to Control Linux Systems via Legacy Kernel Exploits

Thehackernews • February 11, 2026

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This article is one source in a clustered incident — the cluster page carries the summary, timeline and every other outlet covering it.

SSHStalker Botnet Infects 7,000 Linux Systems Using IRC and SSH The SSHStalker botnet has been identified as targeting approximately 7,000 Linux systems across the United States, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Utilizing a combination of Internet Relay Chat (IRC) and SSH for command-and-control operations, this botnet employs mass-compromise techniques to deploy various scanners and malware. The operation leverages outdated communication protocols alongside modern automation methods. 10 sources 36

Extracted Entities

SSHStalker Botnet Uses IRC C2 to Control Linux Systems via Legacy Kernel Exploits

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Extracted Entities

Attack Types (1)

Malware (1)

MITRE ATT&CK (1)

Platforms (1)