Cryptojacking

In Context 

• Cryptojacking’ attacks on computer systems have gone up by 30% to 66.7 million in the first half of 2022 compared to the first half of last year.

What is Cryptojacking ?

• It is a cyber attack wherein a computing device is hijacked and controlled by the attacker, and its resources are used to illicitly mine cryptocurrency.
•  In most cases, the malicious programme is installed when the user clicks on an unsafe link, or visits an infected website — and unknowingly provides access to their Internet-connected device.
• Detection 
  • Cryptojacking is hard to detect and the victims of these attacks mostly remain unaware that their systems have been compromised. 
  • Some telltale signs are the device slowing down, heating up, or the battery getting drained faster than usual.
• Impacts 
  • The primary impact of cryptojacking is performance-related, though it can also increase costs for the individuals and businesses affected because coin mining uses high levels of electricity and computing power.
• Prevention tips
  • Continuously monitor resources on your computer (processing speed, power usage)
  • Use browser extensions that are designed to block coin mining
  • Use more privacy-focused ad blockers
  • Install the latest software updates and patches for your operating system and all applications —especially those concerning web browsers

Source:IE