Cryptojacking
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Cryptojacking refers to the unauthorized usage of another person's computer to mine cryptocurrency. This process is usually done without the knowledge of the victim.[1]
This can occur to virtually any device, and is usually performed through web browser downloads or rogue mobile apps.[2]
Motive
Cryptocurrency mining requires a powerful processor running constantly. Rather than paying for an expensive computer, hackers use the processing power of others in order to mine cryptocurrency and make money.
Symptoms
There are several ways to tell if a computer has been hacked in order to mine cryptocurrency without the consent of the owner.
- Performance of devices greatly decreasing or noticeable increase of processing usage
- Rapidly decreasing battery life or consistent overheat of batteries
- Device fans frequently turning on despite minimal usage
How to Prevent Cryptojacking
In order to decrease vulnerability to cryptojacking, Internet users should take the following actions into consideration:
- Monitor device performance, especially processing speed and power usage.[3]
- Install anti-malware software and ad blockers
- Continuously update browsers, applications, and computer