The more audacity crypto gets, the more likely every user is to become a part of a hacker attack. According to researchers, the number of cryptojacking cases by the first half of 2022 has increased by 30% compared to that same time period in 2021. How to avoid getting involved and how to find out that your tech is already working for cyber-criminals - this article will tell you. 🤝
What is cryptojacking?
Hidden mining or cryptojacking is unauthorized use of any device by attackers with the aim of mining cryptocurrency, while the owner of that device is not aware. Usually, such a scheme is carried out by hackers implementing a special malicious program into the computer - whether it is a virus or a bot. 🤖
Such a program is oftenly hidden inside pirated software and is distributed with torrent file hostings. After the virus bypasses the security system it is disguised as a system file, so the user doesn’t suspect or delete anything. Mining programmes can unite multiple devices into botnets that are controlled by a group of hackers, located inside a single centre. Hence, hackers usually focus on corporative device nets more. However, household desktops, laptops and even mobile phones can also be targeted. 📱
Cryptojackers mostly mine tokens like Monero. That coin is completely anonymous and its mining path can’t be tracked at all. That coin is also available for mining using just the CPU, so every machine can be engaged. 😨
A bit history
Cryptojacking has come a long way all the way since 2017, when the first global virus was located in Russia and by 2019 JS/CoinMiner was infecting the tech of information resource companies and even government services sites. By that time, even official software providers like Microsoft Store contained hostile apps - eight applications were ejected with millions of users already infected. 🦠
How to recognize a virus?
Firstly, be suspicious
Most users would blame the lack of memory or a slow CPU in their device starting to constantly freeze and lag, while the reason for lower productivity might be the new game they have recently downloaded for free. Such programmes would usually load the CPU and GPU, making the device temperatures rise without any visible reason. The device might also start reloading and shutting off. 🔋
Second obvious way
Most big cyber-security companies update their antivirus software weekly, so a quick scan through would do the trick. 🔎
How to get rid of that software
The easiest way is just reinstalling the system. You could also use a specialised program or antivirus like Avira or Avast.
Conclusion
Every can get affected by harmful software, but currently everyone can fight it back as well, so keep cautious and protect your device.🛡
Stay tuned 📻
