- What is cryptojacking?
A cryptocurrency is a form of virTual or digital money that uses cryptography for security. To generate (mine) this currency, a computer’s processing power is required. Cryptojacking (or cryptocurrency hijacking or cryptocurrency mining malware) is the secret use of your computer’s CPU power to generate cryptocurrency without your consent or knowledge. In simpler terms, when your computer is secretly used to generate digital cash, it is called cryptojacking. - What are some popular cryptocurrencies?
Bitcoin
Litecoin (LTC) Litecoin
Ethereum (ETH)
Zcash (ZEC)
Dash
Ripple (XRP)
Monero (XMR)
Who can become the target of cryptojacking?
It is a common misconception that cryptojacking affects only those who handle cryptocurrencies. In fact, anyone who has a computer and uses the Internet can be targeted by attackers behind cryptojacking.How do you know if your computer has been cryptojacked?
If your computer is being used for cryptojacking, the only sign you might notice is slower performance or lag in execution. Some crypto mining scripts can eat 100% of the targeted computer’s CPU power which can significantly lower the lifespan of the hardware itself. In most cryptojacking cases that got reported, neither the owners of the compromised website nor its users were aware that they were the victims.What type of websites are usually targeted for cryptojacking?
Attackers mostly target unprotected websites that receive massive traffic (has a lot of visitors) on a daily basis and compromise them with crypto mining codes. These websites could include government or news portals and even those that provide some kind of online service. And when individual users access these compromised websites, the crypto mining code hijacks their web browsers and begins the mining activity.How can cryptojacking be harmful to your PC?
Cryptojacking consumes your computer’s processing power and slows down the system to an extent where you might not be able to carry out any task. This can significantly impact you if you are a working professional, tester, gamer, etc. Furthermore, if your computer is mining cryptocurrency, it will unnecessarily increase your electricity bill.
In some cases, cryptojacking has also been reported to crash the infected computer and even cause physical harm to Android devices by overheating their batteries.