With the evolution of more digital currencies, the want to accumulate wealth increases . This can only be achieved through mining using legal or illegal methods.
Using Legal ways to mine this currencies takes time and it is expensive, as it uses electricity, expensive computer hardware and in some countries requires much data bundle to achieve it.
Since this method requires much time and resources, cryptojacking which is the illegal method becomes the only favourable option to cyber criminals.
What is cryptojacking ?
Cryptojacking is simply explained as a malicious act in which an attacker installs a script on the computer, smartphone or cloud server infrastructure of an ordinary user, which gives the attacker the permission to use the processing resources of that device to mine cryptocurrency without the awareness of the owner.
Cryptojacking is not as obvious as ransomware or other malware but the negative impact it has on your device life and performance can not be undermined.
The hidden nature of cryptojacking has made it an ideal option for cyber criminals since it poses lesser risk ( being caught and identified) .
Methods of Cryptojacking
There are three major methods cryptojackers use to maliciously mine for digital currencies. These methods include:
1. File-based cryptojacking.
2. Browser-based cryptojacking.
3. Cloud cryptojacking.
1. File-Based Cryptojacking:
This method involves the downloading of malware which spreads a malicious script throughout the IT infrastructure.
One of the most common way such scripts are downloaded is through malicious emails.
When a user clicks on the attachment or link sent in the email, a code is executed which downloads the malicious script into the device.
Such scripts works on the background without the user noticing it.
2. Browser-Based Cryptojacking:
This method takes place directly within a web browser, also uses IT infrastructure.
Malicious scripts are created by hackers and such scripts are embedded into numerous websites, mostly hidden in online ads and malicious websites. Since Javascript is available in almost all websites, the possibility of injecting malicious scripts into the source code of web pages is very high.
The script runs automatically and the code is downloaded into the users' device.
3. Cloud Cryptojacking:
In this method, the hacker searches for API keys to access their cloud services through files and codes of an organization.
When this is accomplished, hackers siphon unlimited CPU resources for illegal cryptomining which results in a huge increase in account costs. With this method huge digital currencies can be accumulated.
How does cyberjacking work?
In this section I will be discussing on the steps taken for illegal cryptomining to occur;
1. The first step taken is for the hackers to compromise an asset by embedding cryptomining codes using any of the above methods I listed above.
2. The next step is the execution of cryptomining scripts by innocent users. This is accomplish by opening malicious emails or surfing websites that contains infected ads.
3. Cryptomining follows after the execution of cryptomining scripts by innocent users. This usual run unnoticed in the background.
Blocks are added to blockchain and when this happens, cryptojackers are being rewarded without much stress and expenses.
How to Detect Cryptojacking
Here are the possible red flags to watch out for before it becomes too late :
1. Decrease in performance of your computing devices.
2. Overheating of your computing device.
3. High processor load.
4. Increase in CPU usage.
How to Prevent Cryptojacking
Here are simple tips to use, which will protect your devices from cryptojackers;
1. Use anti-cryptomining extensions ; example of such extensions include minerBlock, No chain and Anti Miner.
2. Use of Ad-Blockers.
3. Disable javascript; when this is done, bear in mind that many of the functions you need when browsing will be blocked.
4. Use of malwarebytes.
5. Your device and if you are using an antivirus software, must be fully updated to the latest version.
6. Scan for malware using software such as powershell.
With the above review, I believe more users will be free of cyberjacking..
Do have a wonderful day.❤❤❤
