What is cryptojacking, and how can one guard against it?

Cryptojacking occurs when cybercriminals use a victim’s computer, tablet, or mobile device to mine virtual currency without their knowledge. Unlike most other types of malware, cryptojacking scripts typically do not harm the victim’s data. However, cryptojacking can slow down the victim’s computer and internet connection, leading to battery drain.

Cryptojacking?

Cryptojacking, also known as malicious cryptomining or cryptomining malware, is a type of cyberattack in which a hacker takes over a victim’s computer resources and mines cryptocurrency without the victim’s consent. Attacks typically involve installing malware on the victim’s device, such as: B. A computer, smartphone, or server.

It runs in the background and uses the victim’s computing power and energy resources to mine cryptocurrencies. One of the key characteristics of cryptojacking is its stealthy nature.

Unlike ransomware attacks that demand payment, cryptojacking often goes unnoticed by the victim, as the goal is to secretly mine cryptocurrencies without informing the victim of the presence of the malware. there is.

Cryptojacking attacks can target not only organizations and businesses but also individual users. In some cases, attackers target high-profile websites and inject malicious code into the site’s code to mine cryptocurrency while exploiting the computing resources of site visitors.

The rise of cryptojacking has been fueled by the growing popularity and value of cryptocurrencies, making mining these currencies a lucrative endeavor for attackers. In addition, the rise of cryptocurrencies designed to be mined using the computing power of common devices, such as Monero, has made it easier for attackers to monetize their attacks.

Types of cryptojacking

Browser-based cryptojacking: This form of cryptojacking occurs when a user visits a website that has been compromised with malicious code. The code (often JavaScript) runs in the background of the user’s web browser without the user’s knowledge.

It then uses the user’s device’s computing resources to mine cryptocurrencies. This type of cryptojacking does not require any software installation, so it can be difficult to detect. Browser-based cryptojacking can lead to increased CPU usage, which can cause your device to slow down or overheat.

File-based cryptojacking: In this type of attack, an attacker distributes a malicious file (such as an email attachment or a downloadable file) that contains cryptojacking malware.

Once the victim runs the file, the malware is installed on the device. Once installed, the malware uses your device’s resources to mine cryptocurrency. File-based cryptojacking can be more harmful than browser-based cryptojacking, as it can lead to the installation of persistent malware that continues mining cryptocurrencies after the initial infection.

Cloud cryptojacking: This form of cryptojacking targets cloud infrastructure, such as cloud servers and containers. Attackers exploit vulnerabilities in cloud infrastructure to gain unauthorized access and install cryptojacking malware.

Once installed, the malware uses the cloud provider’s resources to mine cryptocurrencies. Cloud cryptojacking can be particularly damaging, as it can result in significant financial losses for cloud providers and their customers. It may also impact the performance of affected cloud services.

How do you detect cryptojacking?

Increased CPU usage: Cryptojacking malware consumes large amounts of CPU resources, which can cause affected devices to become slow or unresponsive. You can detect unusual spikes in CPU usage by monitoring CPU usage using Task Manager or a system monitoring tool.

Overheating: Cryptojacking can cause your device to overheat, especially if the malware uses a lot of CPU power. By monitoring the temperature of your device, you can determine if it is being used for cryptojacking. Increased energy

consumption: Cryptojacking malware uses large amounts of energy to mine cryptocurrencies, so unusually high energy bills can be a sign of cryptojacking activity.

Unusual network traffic: Cryptojacking malware communicates with external servers to receive instructions and send mined cryptocurrency. Monitoring network traffic for unusual patterns or connections to mining pools may indicate cryptojacking activity. Anti-malware alerts: Some anti-malware software can detect the presence of cryptojacking malware and alert you to it.

Regular updates and running anti-malware scans can help detect and remove cryptojacking malware. Browser extensions: Browser extensions can help detect and block cryptojacking scripts on websites. Extensions like NoCoin and MinerBlock can help protect against browser-based cryptojacking.

How do you prevent cryptojacking?

Use anti-malware software: Install reputable anti-malware software and keep it updated. Anti-malware programs detect cryptojacking malware and remove it from your device.

Keep your software up-to-date. Regularly update your operating system, browser, and plugins to protect against known vulnerabilities that cryptojacking malware may exploit.

Use ad blockers and anti-cryptojacking extensions. Browser extensions like NoScript, uBlock Origin, and MinerBlock can help block cryptojacking scripts on websites. Monitor system performance: Monitor device performance.

If you notice a sudden drop in performance or increased energy consumption, it could be a sign of cryptojacking. Use network security measures: Implement network security measures, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, to prevent unauthorized access to your network.

Restrict JavaScript execution: Set your browser to prevent JavaScript from running automatically, especially on untrusted websites.

Cryptojacking threats

Using increasingly complex methods, like polymorphic malware, which may alter its code to evade detection by conventional anti-malware software, is one growing concern.