In today’s digital world, cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to exploit technology for financial gain. As crypto currency continues to grow in popularity, so do cyber threats related to it. One of the fastest-growing and stealthiest forms of cybercrime is cryptojacking — a silent attack that abuses your device’s processing power to mine virtual currency without your consent.
You may have heard people asking questions like: What is crypto? Why are hackers targeting my devices? How do I know if my system is secretly mining cryptocurrency? This article explains everything you need to know about cryptojacking, how it works, risks involved, and how to protect yourself.
What is Crypto?
Before exploring cryptojacking, we should understand the concept of cryptocurrency itself.
Crypto currency is a form of digital money that exists only electronically. It operates independently from traditional banks and governments. The most well-known cryptocurrencies include:
- Bitcoin
- Ethereum
- Monero
- Dogecoin
Instead of being printed, crypto currency is created using a process called mining, which involves solving complex mathematical puzzles to verify and secure transactions on a decentralized network known as blockchain. Miners are rewarded with new coins for contributing their computing power.
This mining process requires enormous processing resources — powerful hardware and significant energy consumption. That cost is exactly what criminals aim to avoid through cryptojacking.
Cryptojacking Meaning and Definition
So, what is cryptojacking in simple terms?
Cryptojacking, also known as crypto jacking, is a cyberattack where criminals secretly hijack someone’s computer, smartphone, or other devices to mine cryptocurrency illegally.
The victim does not lose personal data directly, but their device becomes slow, overheated, and heavily used without their knowledge. The attacker collects the mined digital currency, while the victim unknowingly pays the price in electricity bills, reduced performance, and hardware damage.
Cryptojacking differs from other malware because:
- It does not lock files like ransomware
- It does not openly damage or delete data
- It hides quietly and tries to remain undetected
This secrecy makes it a preferred tool among cybercriminals who want long-term profits instead of immediate disruption.
How Does Cryptojacking Work?
Cybercriminals use two major techniques to infect devices:
Method One: Malware Download Infection
The attacker tricks a user into clicking a malicious email link or downloading an infected file. Once opened, the cryptomining script installs itself and runs silently in the background. The script then begins mining cryptocurrency automatically whenever the device is powered
Also Read: What Is a Replay Attack? A Complete Definition and Explanation
Method Two: Browser-Based Drive-By Mining
This approach does not require installation. Instead:
- A website is infected with a cryptomining script
- When you visit the site, the script immediately uses your CPU power
- The mining stops only when you close the infected browser tab
- In malicious cases, a hidden background tab remains open to continue mining
This type of crypto jacking spread heavily when attackers misused mining scripts like those previously provided by CoinHive.
Why Cryptojacking is Increasing
Criminals find cryptojacking attractive because:
- Crypto mining generates high profits
- No need to buy expensive mining rigs
- It avoids massive electricity bills
- The attack is difficult to detect
- It can run on thousands of devices at once
As more people become involved in crypto trading and crypto usage, attackers also see a growing marketplace to exploit.
Monero is the most frequently mined coin in cryptojacking attacks because:
- It is anonymous and private
- It is mineable using regular home CPUs
While large-scale mining farms exist, cryptojacking enables criminals to build a “botnet” of thousands of hijacked machines for free.
Where Cryptojacking Can Occur
Any digital device capable of internet connectivity and processing tasks can be targeted:
- Laptops and desktops
- Smartphones and tablets
- Smart TVs and IoT devices
- Business servers and databases
- Cloud networks
For businesses, crypto jacking can result in huge power consumption costs and system failures.
Real-World Cryptojacking Examples
Some well-known incidents include:
- A cryptojacking script hidden in Microsoft Store apps
- A major news site infected, mining cryptocurrency using visitors’ browsers
- Water utility systems and router networks globally compromised for mining operations
These cases prove that cryptojacking can target both individuals and high-level organizations — no one is immune.
Signs Your Device May Be Cryptojacked
Cryptojacking hides well, but you may notice unusual behavior such as:
- Constant slow performance or freezing
- Overheating and loud fan noise
- Battery draining faster than usual
- Increased electricity usage
- Web browser crashing unexpectedly
- CPU usage unusually high even when idle
If your device is struggling with simple operations, it might be secretly mining crypto.
Risks and Damage Caused by Crypto Jacking
Even though cryptojacking does not directly steal files, its risks are still serious:
- Shortened device lifespan due to overheating
- High operational costs for businesses
- Work interruptions and productivity loss
- Possibility of spreading to all systems in a network
- Opens pathways for further cyberattacks
It’s like having a criminal secretly living inside your computer — using your resources for their gain.
How to Protect Yourself Against Cryptojacking
Here are the best ways to defend against cryptojacking attacks:
✔ Install strong cybersecurity software
✔ Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources
✔ Block suspicious JavaScript in web browsers
✔ Use trusted ad blockers and anti-mining extensions
✔ Keep your operating system updated
✔ Do not click unknown links from emails or social media
✔ Monitor CPU usage regularly
Business networks should also implement strong IT behavior policies, including traffic monitoring and malware detection systems.
How to Detect and Remove Cryptojacking Software
If you suspect cryptojacking:
- Check Task Manager or Activity Monitor for unusually high CPU loads
- Close all unused browser tabs and apps
- Disconnect from the internet temporarily
- Scan your device using security software
- Uninstall suspicious browser extensions or apps
- Reset your browser or restore factory settings if needed
Swift response reduces damage and prevents attackers from spreading to other devices.
Conclusion
Cryptojacking represents a silent but dangerous cyber threat, growing alongside the world of crypto currency and digital finance. While crypto trading and cryptocurrency adoption offer new opportunities, they also attract cybercriminals seeking illegal profit.
Understanding what is cryptojacking, how it works, and how to spot warning signs is essential. By improving security habits and staying aware of evolving cyber tactics, both individuals and businesses can prevent unauthorized access to their systems.
Your device’s power, battery, and performance are valuable — don’t let cybercriminals steal them to mine coins you never agreed to.
FAQs
What is cryptojacking in simple terms?
Cryptojacking is when hackers secretly use your device to mine cryptocurrency without permission.
Does cryptojacking steal personal data?
Not directly, but it weakens systems, which can lead to future security breaches.
Why do hackers prefer cryptojacking over ransomware?
Because it earns ongoing profit quietly without alerting the victim.
Can cryptojacking harm my device?
Yes — prolonged overheating and CPU overload can permanently damage hardware.
Which cryptocurrencies are most used in crypto jacking?
Monero is the most common due to its privacy features and low mining requirements.
