As we well know, there are endless dangers on the web and cryptojacking is one of them. Called malicious cryptocurrency mining, it is an emerging Internet threat that hides itself on a computer or mobile device, and uses the machine’s resources to “mine” various forms of digital currencies known as cryptocurrencies. It is a burgeoning threat that can take over web browsers, as well as compromise all types of devices, from desktops and laptops to smartphones and even network servers.
Like most malicious attacks on the computing public, the motive is profit, but unlike other threats, if you are a victim of cryptojacking, you may not realize it. Most cryptojacking software is designed to remain hidden from the user, but this does not mean that it is not noticed.
What dangers do you face if you are a victim of Cryptojacking?
This theft of your computing resources slows down other processes, increases your electricity bill and shortens the life of the device. Depending on how subtle the attack is, certain red flags can be observed. If your PC or Mac slows down or the fan runs more times than normal, you have reason to suspect that it is cryptojacking.
But why do they do this? Cryptocurrencies are a type of digital money that exists only in the digital world, without a physical form. They were created as an alternative to traditional money and became popular for their advanced design, growth potential and anonymity, but this coin can be of incredible value and that is why some cybercriminals point to this.
There are several possible ways for cryptojacking to end up on your devices, but the most frequent are:
▸Malware
If you become infected with malware, 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 knowing.
▸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.
See also:
What you should know about Crypto mining
CryptoCurrencies – What this payment method faces
