Archives - Cryptomining

If someone is offering a game for free on a forum, it could contain malware

A general rule of thumb is: “If it’s free, it’s probably too good to be true.” Hackers have been lacing game files with cryptomining malware that could steal your information and affect your computer’s performance. Be sure to only download files like games from reliable sources.

Enable cryptomining protection in Firefox

Cryptomining, a process by which hackers hijack your machine to mine for cryptocurrency, is a new revenue source for cybercriminals. By default, Firefox helps protect against this threat. In your Privacy & Security settings, make sure you’re set to Standard or Strict. If you use custom settings, verify that cryptomining protection is enabled.

What types devices are at risk for cryptojacking?

Any internet-connected device with a CPU is susceptible to cryptojacking. The following are commonly targeted devices: Computer systems and network devices – including those connected to information technology and Industrial Control System networks; Mobile devices – devices are subject to the same vulnerabilities as computers; and Internet of Things devices – internet-enabled devices (e.g., printers, […]

Be aware of cryptojacking

Malicious cyber actors use cryptocurrency-based malware campaigns to install cryptomining software and hijack the processing power of victim devices and systems to earn cryptocurrency. Cryptojacking may result in the following consequences to victim devices, systems, and networks: Degraded system and network performance because bandwidth and central processing unit (CPU) resources are monopolized by cryptomining activity; […]

Block cryptocurrency miners running in the background

Some websites monetize themselves by using cryptocurrency miners that hijack a device’s CPU to mine for digital currencies like Bitcoin. These miners can put a lot of strain on your processor and battery. Some browsers now block this tactic by default, while others have compatible extensions that will block such scripts for you.

The Worst Malware of 2018

In our year-end roundup of the worst malware threats of 2017, we compared malware to actual biological viruses, in that both are ever-evolving phenomena. For example, you know how it’s recommended for certain demographics to get a flu shot every year?  The rationale is simple: The flu virus itself is never identical from year to year, meaning that […]