We all are aware of different types of internet dangers like adware, malware etc - but with the advent of cryptocurrency there is a new tricky threat called "cryptojacking".
So, what is crytpojacking all about?
In simplest form, your laptop or mobile device is used for mining when you load a compromised web page.
How does it actually works?
The hackers or malicious miners make use of Javascript to start working instantly when these websites are accessed by users. There is no traditional way of sneaking a software into your computer.
What's are the problem it can cause to you?
Basically it make use of your hardware resources and electricity for someone else digital profit. It can even have serious impact on performance of your devices.
What type of precautions to consider?
Always keep an eye on the processes working on your device. Check whether the mobile devices are getting heated up without any application running in background. On computers you can always check the task manager and keep track of CPU, Memory etc usages
Is there any plugin or tool to stay protected?
Yes, there are plugins for browsers. Even many antivirus companies are coming out with more protection.
For chrome users they can use the extension "NoCoin", "minerBlock" which will protect against these type of mining. Firefox user can use "NoScript" extension to block the mining.
This problem was debuted by a company Coinhive and it was then adopted by sites like Pirate Bay (torrent) to raise funds. There are cases where the hackers used the traffic of some other sites for mining purpose by injecting scripts into these sites.
There is positive and negative side of this complication - it just we need to be more constructive with blockchain technology.
You can read more about it: https://www.wired.com/story/cryptojacking-cryptocurrency-mining-browser/