Patrick Domingues

There are so many ways that hackers can use your computer to make themselves money and cryptojacking is one of them. Worst part about it is if you don’t have proper security in place you wont even know that your infected.

What is Cryptojacking?

Well the term cryptojacking refers to the unauthorized use of someone’s computer for mining cryptocurrency, for example bitcoin. Cryptojacking is a big deal because the hackers are stealing your computing power and making your systems slower. All the computing power they are using up will have a tangible effect in your power consumption and could cost you double in your power bill.

How does Cryptojacking work?

There are a few methods that you can be infected with Cryptojacking.

1. Hackers can send you an email and trick you into clicking the link that loads the malicious software on your computer.
2. Hackers can compromise a website or an online ad which would run the cryptojacking software once you load the website.

Unlike ransomware or other forms of malware, cryptojacking does not damage your computer or takes your data for ransom. The impact however would be your wallet when you have to pay the power bill.

How do you prevent Cryptojacking? 

It is difficult to detect computers that have been infected with cryptojacking. But these basic measures help prevent your systems from being hijacked.

• Cyber Security awareness will go a long way if your staff is vigilant and they are aware of shady emails and links it will help a lot to prevent hacking and phishing attempts.
• Install Anti-Cryptomining software. There are many solutions out there that can help with this. Google search can help you with that.
• You can disable JavaScript from loading in your browser.
• Install software that disables Ad’s.

Let’s all join forces and be more aware. The battle against malicious hackers is not a sprint it is a marathon and we should all do our part.

Patrick Domingues

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