The authorized use of smart devices like computers, tablets, mobile phones, and other connected by an authorized person or cybercriminals to mine the cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency is a type of digital currency that is used to exchange goods, services, and real money. The cybercriminals use a specially designed program to deal with complex, encrypted equations to gain access to the currency.

How cryptojacking works

Cryptojacking can be conducted in various ways. One of the common ways is through the use of malicious emails. When the users open the emails, it automatically installs a cryptomining code on a computer. Phishing tactics are used to make it successful. The email usually contains a link or attachment which seems to be from a harmless site. The cryptomining scripts in the computer and works in the background without the victim knowledge.

Browser mining is another common way of cryptomining. The cybercriminal injects a script on websites or AD which is displayed on various websites. When the users browse the infected websites, an ad pop up in the browser and the script automatically executes. No code is installed on the computer in this case.

What are the Signs of cryptojacking

There are few signs that a cryptojacking has infected your system

• The computer or other device keeps on heating up
• The device starts creating loud whirring noise
• The battery of the device starts draining faster than usual
• The working performance slows down or crashing often than usual

How to detect cryptojacking

One of the best ways to detect cryptojacking is through protecting the endpoint. The cybercriminals use encryption and less visible communication channels to avoid network-based defenses. By using endpoint directly, a firm will be able to effectively monitor the system for change and determine the unauthorized activity.

It is vital that the endpoint protection technology should be updated, and smart enough to catch unauthorized activities or threats besides blocking them. The cyber attackers use various techniques like scripting languages, taking advantage of out-dated software’s which are used on computers and or system. Crypto mining software can be installed in traditional endpoint devices as well as on cloud environment.

What’s the treatment for cryptojacking?

Once you come to know that a cryptojacking ransomware has entered your computer or other devices all you need to do is

• Close and block the website running the script
• Update and purge browser extensions