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
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