Information Technology Blog - - Cryptojacking 101: How To Detect and Prevent - Information Technology Blog
Due to the advancement in the field of science and technology, we have many advantages. But we are well aware of the fact that “everything has advantages and disadvantages.” One of the most devastating uses of technology is cryptojacking. What is cryptojacking? How can it be detected? How can it be prevented? And many other questions related to this.
What is Cryptojacking?
Cryptojacking is the unsanctioned utilization of someone else’s computer to mine cryptocurrency. Hackers do this by either getting the victim to click on a spiteful link in an email that loads crypto mining code on the computer or by infecting a website or online ad with JavaScript code that auto-executes once loaded in the victim’s browser. With the advancement in the era of cryptocurrencies, we’ve seen the emergence of cryptojacking, the unauthorized use of computing power to mine these currencies.
Why is Cryptojacking Growing?
It is difficult to describe how bitcoin obtains monetary value; however, it is dependent in part on the concept of supply and demand, and the struggle of gaining the cryptocurrency. There are a limited quantity of Bitcoins that have not been completely mined. Other variables such as how easy the currency is to use, the energy and equipment put into mining it, and more. Micropayments have also shifted in value in the past several years and have made cryptojacking popular and systems and accounts more vulnerable.
How Does Cryptojacking Work?
Cryptojackers have various techniques to infect computing devices and, in return, mine for currencies. There are many methods to launch a cryptojacking attack. Some of them are given below.
Malware Script
In this method, a user downloads a link that contains malware, which downloads code that is installed into your computer or PC to initiate mining cryptocurrency. Regrettably, even the best anti-viruses don’t offer much patronage. This kind of cryptojacking rule over your computer, but contrasting conventional malware, cryptojacking doesn’t harm or anguish your computer because hackers are thinking long-term. One thing needs to Remember there: Cryptojackers need to continue to use your computer resources over time to successfully mine cryptocurrency.
In-Browser JavaScript Code
Often mentioned is drive-by crypto mining; this technique requires infecting many computers by inoculating JavaScript code into a web page. Any device or machine that browses that page can become added to the list of cryptojacking machines.
The target is mainly those who are interested in gaming industries, through micropayments. Users are infected through the site, and in return, the site utilizes your computing assets for cryptocurrency. The dissimilarity between an honest and dishonest approach with JavaScript code is honest sites release your computer session when you leave a site and are forthright about their approach, where dishonest sites keep sessions open or load dishonest cookies and aren’t clear about their terms of use.
How to Detect Cryptojacking
Cryptojacking has a lot of potential to affect your business operation. Noticing which of your systems have been compromised can be difficult. The code in crypto mining scripts can effortlessly evade observation, which means you and your IT squad need to be extremely observant.
Here are some of the methods you can use to detect cryptojacking before it’s too late.
Decrease In Performance
One of the top symptoms of cryptojacking is a decrease in performance in your computing devices. It includes desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. Slower systems can be the first sign of crypto mining – educate your employees to report any decrease in processing to IT.
Overheating
Cryptojacking causes the device to become overheated. It can cause damage to the computer device . When devices are cryptojacked, you may notice that fans run longer than usual.
Check CPU Usage
Keep checking CPU usage. It can be done by using Activity Monitor or Task Manager. If an increase in CPU usage is detected while idle, it is a sign that a cryptomining script is running in your device.
Monitor Websites
Cybercriminals are looking for websites they can implant crypto-mining code. Regularly monitor your websites for changes to webpages or any files on the webserver. This early detection can prevent your systems from being compromised by cryptojacking.
Get The Latest Information
Information and instructions about cryptojacking are consistently being modernized as cybercriminals come up with the latest mining scripts and techniques of infecting your computer or PC. Stay behind newest trends and threats by relying on reliable sources such as CryptoSlate and CoinDesk.
Ways to Prevent Cryptojacking
Although it’s hard to perceive when your computer system or PC has been compromised by cryptojacking, there are some preventive actions you can take to shield your computer and networking process and your crypto-assets.
Train Your IT Team
To detect cryptojacking, your IT team or squad should be well trained. They should be well informed about the signs of an attack and take instant steps to investigate further.
Educate Your Employees
IT team should educate their employees to keep an eye on different things happening to their computer systems. They should be advised to inform their team in case of any harm or over-heating to their computer system.
Use Anti-Crypto Mining Extensions
Cryptojacking scripts are often positioned in web browsers. Use browser additions to block or script crypto miners across the web such as miner block, No Coin, and Anti Miner.
Use Ad-Blockers
Cryptojackers usually act on Web Ads. Use Ad-blockers that can detect and block malicious crypto-mining code.
Disable JavaScript
When browsing online, disabling JavaScript can prevent cryptojacking code from infecting your computer. Keep in mind that disabling JavaScript will block many of the functions you need when browsing.
Cryptojacking Infographic
If your computer network has been attacked by cryptojacking, it’s time to take a closer look at the strength of your security. Please see the infographic below for more information on cryptojacking.
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