Cryptojacking is a scheme to use people’s devices (computers, smartphones, tablets, or even servers), without their consent or knowledge, to secretly mine cryptocurrency on the victim’s dime. Instead of building a dedicated cryptomining computer, hackers use cryptojacking to steal computing resources from their victims’ devices. When you add all these resources up, hackers are able to compete against sophisticated cryptomining operations without the costly overhead.
If you’re a victim of cryptojacking, you may not notice. Most cryptojacking software is designed to stay hidden from the user, but that doesn’t mean it’s not taking its toll. This theft of your computing resources slows down other processes, increases your electricity bills, and shortens the life of your device. Depending on how subtle the attack is, you may notice certain red flags. If your PC or Mac slows down or uses its cooling fan more than normal, you may have reason to suspect cryptojacking.
The motivation behind cryptojacking is simple: money. Mining cryptocurrencies can be very lucrative, but turning a profit is now next to impossible without the means to cover large costs. To someone with limited resources and questionable morals, cryptojacking is an effective, inexpensive way to mine valuable coins.
If you’re a victim of cryptojacking, you may not notice. Most cryptojacking software is designed to stay hidden from the user, but that doesn’t mean it’s not taking its toll. This theft of your computing resources slows down other processes, increases your electricity bills, and shortens the life of your device. Depending on how subtle the attack is, you may notice certain red flags. If your PC or Mac slows down or uses its cooling fan more than normal, you may have reason to suspect cryptojacking.
The motivation behind cryptojacking is simple: money. Mining cryptocurrencies can be very lucrative, but turning a profit is now next to impossible without the means to cover large costs. To someone with limited resources and questionable morals, cryptojacking is an effective, inexpensive way to mine valuable coins.