The cryptojacking software helps hackers reap huge profits by stealing computing power instead of making any investments in big mining rigs. All they need to do is trick users into clicking some links, and it leads to injecting common devices with cryptojacking malware. The risks are low, and the profits are huge when scammers are involved in illegal crypto mining operations. These factors are giving rise to the cryptojacking cyber attacks. So, this write-up provides you with detailed information about cryptojacking attacks and how you can prevent these attacks.
What are Cryptojacking Attacks?
Cryptojacking attacks are malicious online attacks in which cybercriminals hack vulnerable devices using browser hijacking malware and malicious programs to manipulate system resources to mine cryptocurrency without the authorization, expressed permission, or knowledge of the users.
At its most fundamental level, cryptojacking is an illegal cryptocurrency mining process in which hackers employ user device resources to run expensive, power-consuming crypto mining processes. It is not similar to ransomware attacks or malware attacks in which attackers infect devices to steal the data and hijack the system, blocking the user’s access to the main system.
Instead, it steals the resources of the system and channels them to mine cryptocurrency without investing in heavy mining rigs. The mining operations run in the background of your system without triggering any security alert. Users may be infected with cryptojacking malware, but they have no clue about it.
Why do Hackers do Cryptojacking for Crypto Mining?
Crypto mining requires powerful computers to guess or calculate trillions of number combinations every second to verify transactions on different blockchain networks and add them to a public ledger. Miners compete to solve a complex math puzzle that is also known as ‘proof of work.’ Whoever first solves the puzzle gets to add a block to the blockchain and gets a reward in the form of crypto. This process consumes more energy than some small countries around the planet. The machinery and process involved in crypto mining make it a highly expensive business. To avoid the cost and maintain huge mining machinery such as ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) or high-end GPUs, hackers use cryptojacking methods to mine cryptocurrency without investing in heavy machinery.
What are the Different Types of Cryptojacking Attacks?
Hackers use different types of cryptojacking attacks to target different types of devices and systems to manipulate them to do unauthorized crypto mining. They use the latest tools and technologies to launch their attacks and hack into individual devices and IT infrastructures. It is really important to understand different types of cryptojacking attacks to protect your devices from getting misused by cybercriminals to mine cryptocurrency at your cost. So, here are the detailed descriptions of different types of cryptojacking attacks:
How does Cryptojacking Hide Behind Fake Web Content?
Malvertising uses different types of fake web content to break into your device. When you are browsing the internet and doing your online activities, hackers trick your web browsers, and you do not have any idea about it. You won’t be able to spot the hidden codes under the fake ads or page content when you are browsing the internet using your devices. Hackers use different methods to hijack your system and turn it into a host to mine cryptocurrency without you knowing anything.
a. Malvertising:
It is the most common way that is used to inject crypto malware into your device while you are browsing the internet and clicking an attractive ad offering the best deals and discounts. These ads appear normal and are placed on real-looking websites, but when you click on them, the hidden browser hijacking program enters your system and makes your device work for hackers as long as you are browsing on that specific website.
b. Deceptive Websites
Cybercriminals create fake and deceptive websites to engage users and manipulate them into clicking download and page links to download the hijacker program onto the device. As the users download any files from those spoofed websites, the malicious programs also come bundled with the original file. Once it is in the device, it hacks the system resource and runs the illegal crypto mining process in the background.
b. Deceptive Websites
Cybercriminals create fake and deceptive websites to engage users and manipulate them into clicking download and page links to download the hijacker program onto the device. As the users download any files from those spoofed websites, the malicious programs also come bundled with the original file. Once it is in the device, it hacks the system resource and runs the illegal crypto mining process in the background.
c. Sneaky Windows in the Background
Cybercriminals create fake and deceptive websites to engage users and manipulate them into clicking download and page links to download the hijacker program onto the device. As the users download any files from those spoofed websites, the malicious programs also come bundled with the original file. Once it is in the device, it hacks the system resource and runs the illegal crypto mining process in the background.
d. JavaScript Code on Website
Hackers use compromised websites to load JavaScript code in the images, videos, and ads on the compromised websites. When you are on such a website, the crypto mining starts in the background without your permission. It uses your device`s processor, such as CPU and GPU, to sort out the complex problems and mine cryptocurrency for hackers. Due to this, your system uses more electricity and internet data, which is all billed in your name, and you pay all the money from your account.
Cryptojacking Attacks Via Malicious Links
Malicious links are another method that cryptojackers use to trick you into downloading the mining malware onto your device. They send scam links to you, and you click those links and follow the prompts to configure your device to work for them. Here are different types of scam links cybercrooks use to launch cryptojacking attacks:
a. Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are one of the most common ways that lead to malware infiltration in your device. In these scams, you get an email or message from an unknown sender that looks like an urgent and immediate request. But when you click the link, it triggers malware infiltration in your device, and a chain of harmful events is unchained.
b. Clone Phishing
Clone phishing is another method that attackers use to trick you and download a malicious program into your system. In this method, the attackers take the original message or security alert from a bank or from a sensitive source, then place a malicious link after removing the legitimate one. When a user receives this type of link on their device, they become nervous and act impulsively without thinking much about the dire consequences.
c. Infected Apps
Cybercrooks use infected mobile apps to hijack your device and use its resources for their benefit. When you download and install the infected apps, the malicious programs enter your PC and compromise the system resources. Once this is successful, the malware can easily configure system resources to mine the cryptocurrency without your permission.
d. In-Memory Hijacking
In-Memory Hijacking is another method in which hackers leave a malicious file inside the device that is really difficult to catch. In this type of attack, you click a link and open an attachment, but nothing gets downloaded on your PC. The malicious file sneakily enters your system without triggering any alert. After this, it enters your device’s RAM (memory) to run its mining code. Everything takes place directly in memory, and nothing is saved to your hard drive. This way, no antivirus software will be able to scan and catch it.
Why is Cryptojacking Dangerous?
Since Cryptojacking does not steal your personal data, similar to the case of malware attacks, it may seem harmless. But when you see it more closely, it carries inherent dangers and risks that damage your device, wallet, and security without triggering any alert. Here are some inherent dangers that cryptojacking poses to your PC:
1. It Wears Down Your Device
When crypto mining malware enters your CPU or GPU, it runs nonstop to mine cryptocurrency. It puts a lot of stress and workload on your system resources, which leads to overheating, battery drain, and long-term damage to the hardware of your computer. As a result of this, your device slows down and won’t be able to last long to perform your essential tasks efficiently.
2. It Increases Your Costs
When your PC is compromised due to a cryptojacking attack, cybercriminals use it to run heavy processes and operations that use electricity, mobile data, and processing power. Due to this, your energy bill will go up without you knowing anything. If you are running a business that involves heavy IT infrastructure, and it has any malicious program working secretly without your permission, then you will be losing thousands of dollars every day.
3. It’s Hard to Detect
Cryptojackers run sneakily in your system and hide in browsers, extensions, or memory when running on your device. Due to its covert and background operations, most users fail to notice any damage. Even the antivirus software fails to detect and track these malicious programs when running in the background.
4. It Creates Security Gaps
When your system is overburdened and more irrelevant tasks are run in the background, then your system becomes overwhelmed. The performance goes drastically low, and you see freezes and glitches more frequently. This creates security gaps and system vulnerabilities, paving the way to infiltrate more threats and malicious programs in the computer. Hackers can easily spy, steal, or access your vulnerable devices to launch bigger malware attacks.
5. It Damages Business Systems
When cryptojackers enter your system, it affects performance, slows down networks, and reduces overall productivity of the machines and connected endpoints. Most importantly, it puts sensitive company data at risk if the network and endpoints are already compromised. In the long run, it puts privacy and security of client and company data at serious risk. This can damage the trust of the customers and reputation of the company in the industry.
What are the Signs of Cryptojacking in Your Device?
If your device is compromised and it has cryptojacking malware, then you won’t be able to experience a seamless computing experience. You feel stuck, frozen, and slow to complete your tasks. If your device is compromised, then it will show the following signs:
1. Your Device Is Slower Than Usual
- Apps take longer to open
- Web pages load slowly
- Even basic tasks feel sluggish
2. Overheating for No Clear Reason
- Your device feels hot even when you’re doing simple tasks
- The fan is always running at full speed
3. High CPU Usage
- CPU usage stays unusually high, even when you are not doing any tasks.
- You can check the activity by opening the task manager to confirm what processes are running on your computer.
4. Your Electricity or Data Bills Go Up
- You notice higher power or mobile data usage
- You charge your PC more, but the battery drains quickly.
- Cryptojacking uses your electricity and data to mine coins.
5. Browser Slows Down or Crashes
Some tabs feel heavy or crash often due to the crypto mining process running in the background.
6. New or Suspicious Browser Extensions
If your system is compromised, then you will see extensions and apps you didn’t install. These are all the doings of the cryptojackers that lead to add-ons and additional programs.
7. Security Software Sends Warnings
If you are using robust antivirus software on your computer, then it will give you security alerts about suspicious programs running in your background. In most cases, it flags the process for its malicious activities, such as mining programs or malicious programs.
How to Protect Against Cryptojacking?
To experience a seamless browsing experience and glitch-free computing experience then you have to keep your device safe from cryptojackers. Here are some quick and effective tips that keep you safe from malicious cryptojacking attacks:
1. Use Strong Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
Download and install a robust security program on your device to keep it safe from malicious programs. Make sure the antivirus you download on your device has advanced features like behavior analysis, macrovirus heuristic, and real-time protection that provides your computer with constant security. Along with this, make sure it remains up-to-date to detect and remove the latest virus programs.
2. Install a Cryptojacking Blocker in Your Browser
You can use dedicated software to block cryptojackers from entering your computer. You should go for add-ons like No Coin, MinerBlock, or uBlock Origin to stop mining scripts and programs from infiltrating and running on your device. With the help of these smart tools, you will be able to block hidden JavaScripts as well when you are browsing the internet.
3. Keep Your Software and Operating System Updated
It is highly recommended that you keep your device up-to-date all the time. Download new updates as soon as they are made available online. Updates fix known bugs and security holes in your digital devices that prevent hackers from exploiting them.
4. Avoid Phishing Emails and Suspicious Links
Cybercriminals use phishing emails and spoofed links to trick users into downloading malicious programs. They use emergency messages and security alerts to urge the user to act impulsively and click the malicious links in the messages and phishing emails. So you must beware of fake and phishing links coming in messages from unknown and suspicious sources. Hover over like before clicking them to see where they are directing. If they are taking you to unsafe and unknown websites, then avoid them at all costs.
5. Only Install Apps and Extensions from Trusted Sources
It is highly recommended that you use only trusted and official sources to get your apps and information. Never use unknown or third-party websites, random app stores, and sketchy browser add-ons to get your apps and online information. Cybercrooks create and launch fake online websites and platforms to attract users and get them to download malicious content onto their devices. So, you must always check and review the online platforms and the permissions when you are getting any apps or programs from these sites.
6. Watch for Unusual Device Behavior
When your PC is infected with cryptojackers, it starts behaving abnormally. You may experience slow system performance, glitches, freezes, overheating, and high CPU usage. If you see any of these unusual behaviors, then run a system scan immediately to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem.
7. Use Network Monitoring Tools (for Businesses)
If you are running a business and it has a big setup of digital devices, database, integrated network system, and multiple endpoints communicating with them, then you should use advanced tools to monitor the online traffic and IT operations across the network to check the presence of mining malware in your systems. To effectively monitor your business’s networks and endpoints, you can use network monitoring tools that are easily available in the market. These tools will help you keep an eye on the internal network and machine activities, and look for patterns that indicate background mining across multiple devices.
8. Block Mining Domains
To block mining domains, you must use DNS filters or firewalls to block access to known cryptojacking websites. It will protect you from unsafe websites and cryptojacking domains. You can use cybersecurity tools as well to block mining domains automatically. Antivirus software tools offer mining domain blocking features that protect you from harmful domains.
