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Financial Services Review | Monday, March 01, 2021
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It's hard to realize that your computer is compromised because the code runs in secret. Cryptojacking takes place behind the scenes, without disrupting your everyday use. It's also hard to monitor hackers, mainly anonymous cryptocurrencies like Monero and Zcash.
Fremont, CA: Cryptojacking is an illegal use of someone's digital currency mining device. Using an extensive network of machines, hackers can mine crypto while using their victims' electricity, devices, and computing resources to boost their profits. Victims might not even know that their computer is mining crypto. Slower performance and overheated machines may be the only signs.
There are two ways hackers can cryptojack your device:
Bitcoin mining malware: Hackers can use phishing tactics to trick you into clicking on a malicious link or downloading a malicious document that hides crypto-malware. This form of malware is difficult to detect and can run a cryptojacking operation in the background without even knowing it.
Browser-based cryptomining scripts: Through this approach, a hacker installs a malicious piece of code on a web page. Their script will be executed automatically once the website is loaded. Nothing is saved on your computer, but you've been mining crypto for as long as the web browser is available.
Why are hackers in love with cryptojacking?
Quick money: Hackers don't need to use their computers or computing power. This means that they are reaping the benefits for a fraction of the cost. Instead, affected users may suffer from higher electricity bills and overloaded devices that may need to be fixed earlier than anticipated. You're not going to note that your computer is being used for cryptojacking until it's too late.
Minimum Risk: It's hard to realize that your computer is compromised because the code runs in secret. Cryptojacking takes place behind the scenes, without disrupting your everyday use. It's also hard to monitor hackers, mainly anonymous cryptocurrencies like Monero and Zcash. Victims rarely choose to do so since their data is rarely stolen or compromised.
Higher rate of success: Hackers prefer cryptojacking over ransomware because it ensures a steady flow of money. With ransomware, only a few victims could pay for the ransom. Cryptojacking means that all infected computers generate revenue.
