Cryptocurrency mining malware or Cryptojacking attacks increase 450% in the last years. While it may not steal your data, crypto hijacking will make your system suffer: the theft of computing resources to solve the complex computing problems required to mine cryptocurrencies. Attacks do more than decrease the performance of your computer, often introducing ransomware and other malware while accessing your system.
Crypto mining and cryptojacking cause extremely high processor activity that has notable side effects. Victims often report visibly reduced performance of their device, its overheating, and increased fan activity (and thus higher noise).
How can we counter Cryptojacking and what problem can it cause?
There are several possible ways for cryptojacking to end up on your devices, but the most frequent are:
▸Webs and browsers
It is an increasingly frequent practice: some websites, without notifying their users, offer your internet connection for mining, which is a fraud for people who will be putting their equipment at the service of a third party. Through the browser they use your bandwidth and equipment to generate new coins.
▸Malware
At any time (when receiving an email, installing an application, activating hidden software) the cybercriminal can install malware on your computer that manages to take control of the device, trigger CPU use and start mining cryptocurrencies without you find out although this of course not only applies to Cryptojacking
▸Technical problems with equipment
Normal computers are not prepared to work while mining cryptocurrencies. If cryptojacking infects the device, it will create problems for the company due to lost productivity and additional expenses: since technical assistance or, sometimes, the replacement of the computer is required.
