Cryptojacking: How to prevent, detect, and recover from it

Cryptojacking is an emerging form of cybercrime where criminals exploit victims' devices, including computers, smartphones, tablets, or even servers, to mine cryptocurrency without authorization. This process involves tricking victims into executing mining code, often through deceptive tactics. While it might seem innocuous, cryptojacking can lead to significant issues, much like ransomware. The core aim of these cybercriminals is profit. However, unlike many cyber threats, cryptojacking is designed to operate stealthily, remaining undetected by the victim.

These nefarious activities often involve ransomware-like strategies and the use of compromised websites to hijack the computing power of unsuspecting employees' machines. As this threat becomes more prevalent, it is vital for individuals and organizations to understand how to recognize and prevent such attacks. Safeguarding against cryptojacking requires a combination of cybersecurity awareness, updated security measures, and regular monitoring of systems to detect any unauthorized use of resources. By staying informed and vigilant, users can significantly reduce the risk of their devices being co-opted for these illicit mining operations.

What is cryptojacking?

Cryptojacking is a multifaceted cyber threat that clandestinely uses a victim's computing resources to mine cryptocurrency. Unlike other cybercrimes, cryptojacking does not seek to steal personal data or financial information, nor does it lock down systems like ransomware. Instead, it operates covertly, embedding malicious code into computers or mobile devices.

This illicit practice involves unauthorized mining of digital or virtual currencies, such as Bitcoin, among approximately 3,000 others. Most cryptocurrencies are virtual, relying on a distributed database known as the blockchain. This blockchain is regularly updated with transaction data, with each new set of transactions forming a 'block' through complex mathematical processes.

Miners, or individuals providing computing power, are rewarded with cryptocurrency for producing these blocks. However, in cryptojacking, the heavy computational work is offloaded onto unsuspecting victims' devices. This can lead to noticeable performance issues, such as slower system speeds, overheating, increased power consumption, and abnormally high cloud computing bills. The mining process is so resource-intensive that it not only slows down the victim's device but can also lead to increased electricity costs and reduced device lifespan.

The motive behind cryptojacking is purely financial. It allows attackers to mine valuable cryptocurrencies without bearing the substantial costs of running dedicated mining rigs, which require significant electrical power. The tokens mined are sent to wallets controlled by the attackers, turning the victim's device into a source of income.

Cryptojacking can manifest in various forms, often embedding itself through hacked websites, malware, or by exploiting users' login information. The threat has grown with the popularity of cryptocurrencies and the rise of decentralized finance (DeFi). Attackers might not even use the mined cryptocurrency themselves; instead, they can contribute it to liquidity pools in the DeFi space, earning profits indirectly.

To safeguard against this growing threat, understanding the mechanics of cryptojacking and being vigilant for signs of compromise is crucial. Users and organizations must strengthen their cybersecurity measures, monitor systems for unusual activity, and educate themselves about the risks associated with cryptojacking.

How does cryptojacking work?

Cryptojacking is a sophisticated cyber threat that involves unauthorized use of computing resources to mine cryptocurrencies or steal from cryptocurrency wallets. This deceptive practice typically unfolds in several stages, with the initial attack involving the placement of malicious code on the target system.

The attack may commence through various methods. In download attacks, victims inadvertently execute the malicious code by clicking on seemingly innocuous links in emails or downloading infected files, which could range from program files to digital media. In contrast, injection attacks embed malware as a JavaScript module in websites or online ads, executing as the user browses the web. Some cryptojackers combine these methods, enhancing the attack’s reach and potential profitability.

Once the code is in place, it begins mining for cryptocurrencies like Monero or Zcash, chosen for their privacy features and ability to be mined on common computers, thus maximizing returns while concealing the attacker's identity. The cryptojacking script runs complex mathematical problems on the victim's device and transmits the results to a server controlled by the attacker, without storing any code on the computer.

The impact on the victim's device can vary. Users may notice slower performance, overheating, or increased electricity costs due to the intensive use of processing power. This stealthy operation often goes unnoticed, with cryptojacking scripts designed to use just enough system resources to avoid detection. They can even persist in hidden browser windows after the user has left the infected site.

In some cases, cryptojacking scripts also have worming capabilities, allowing them to spread across networks and disable competing cryptomining malware. This makes them particularly hard to identify and remove. For businesses, this can translate to significant costs, including increased IT maintenance, electricity bills, and potential damage to hardware.

The evolution of cryptojacking has seen various approaches, from websites asking users' permission to mine cryptocurrencies in exchange for content, to more malicious forms that operate without consent and remain active even after the user has navigated away from the compromised site or closed visible browser windows. Android mobile devices are also vulnerable, with attacks occurring through Trojan viruses hidden in apps or by redirecting users to infected websites.

Overall, cryptojacking represents a growing concern in the digital landscape, combining the stealth and persistence of malware with the lucrative lure of cryptocurrency mining, all at the expense of unsuspecting victims and their devices.

Cryptojacking attack – examples

Cryptojacking, a significant cyber threat, has manifested in various high-profile attacks, exploiting devices worldwide to mine cryptocurrencies like Monero. These incidents highlight the evolving tactics of cybercriminals and the wide-reaching impact of these attacks.

In 2018, the Coinhive miner, a tool originally intended for legitimate cryptomining, was manipulated for malicious purposes. Notably, it was embedded in the Los Angeles Times' Homicide Report page, covertly using visitors' devices to mine Monero. The subtle nature of the script, using minimal computing power, delayed its detection and demonstrated the stealth of cryptojacking attacks.

That same year, a European water utility experienced a significant disruption due to cryptojacking, marking one of the first known instances against an industrial control system. Radiflow, a security firm, identified cryptomining scripts exploiting the utility's system resources for generating Monero.

In another high-profile case, WannaMine, a cryptojacking script, leveraged the ExternalBlue exploit to infect computers globally, silently mining Monero by harnessing victims' computing power. Its sophisticated design made it particularly difficult to detect and block, contributing to numerous infections.

Governments in Britain, the U.S., and Canada were also targets of cryptojacking in 2018. Attackers exploited vulnerabilities in text-to-speech software embedded in official government websites, inserting Coinhive scripts to mine Monero through visitors' browsers.

The Microsoft Store faced an intrusion in 2019 when eight apps were found secretly mining cryptocurrency, underlining the diverse platforms vulnerable to such attacks. These apps appeared legitimate but contained cryptojacking JavaScript code, exploiting the resources of unsuspecting users to mine Monero.

Tesla Inc. wasn't immune either. In 2018, their Amazon Web Services infrastructure was compromised, running mining malware. While the data exposure was minimal, the incident underscored the broader security risks and potential financial implications of cryptojacking.

These instances collectively illustrate the ingenuity and persistence of cryptojackers. They exploit a range of vulnerabilities – from web pages and industrial systems to app stores and cloud infrastructure – demonstrating the need for heightened vigilance and robust cybersecurity measures to combat this evolving digital menace.

How to detect cryptojacking

Protecting against the pervasive threat of cryptojacking requires a multifaceted approach, blending vigilant monitoring with robust cybersecurity practices. Given its covert nature and evolving tactics, staying ahead of cryptojacking attacks is crucial for both individuals and businesses.

Key Signs of Cryptojacking:

Decreased Performance: A noticeable slowdown in system performance, frequent crashes, and poor device responsiveness can signal a cryptojacking intrusion. Watch for unusually high battery drainage as well.
Overheating: Cryptojacking is resource-intensive, often leading to overheating of devices. An overactive cooling fan might be a telltale sign of cryptojacking scripts running in the background.
Elevated CPU Usage: An unexplained spike in CPU usage, especially when visiting websites with minimal media content, may indicate cryptojacking activity. Utilizing tools like Task Manager or Activity Monitor can help detect this, but be aware that some scripts may disguise themselves as legitimate processes.

Protective Measures:

Anti-Malware and Antivirus Software: Regular use of reliable anti-malware and antivirus software can help detect and remove cryptojacking malware. However, it's important to note that some sophisticated malware might evade these defenses.
Cybersecurity Expertise: Employing a dedicated cybersecurity expert or team can be invaluable, especially for businesses, given the rapid evolution of cyber threats.
Cyber Liability Insurance: In the event of a breach, cyber liability and data breach insurance can help mitigate financial losses, although it's crucial to ensure that the policy covers cryptojacking incidents.
Regular Software Updates: Keeping all systems and applications, particularly web browsers, updated can close security gaps exploited by cryptojackers.
Browser Extensions and Ad Blockers: Using browser extensions like No Coin, MinerBlock, or ad blockers can prevent cryptojacking scripts from executing in web browsers.
Disabling JavaScript: While disabling JavaScript can disrupt some web functionalities, it effectively blocks drive-by cryptojacking.
Caution with Email Links: Be wary of clicking on links in emails, especially from unknown sources, as they could trigger a cryptojacking script download.
Monitoring System Resources: Regularly checking processor and memory usage can help detect anomalies indicative of cryptojacking.

As cryptojacking continues to evolve, so must the defenses against it. The key is a proactive and comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, staying informed about the latest threats, and employing a combination of technological safeguards and good digital hygiene practices. Keeping security software up-to-date and being aware of the latest cryptojacking trends are essential in this ongoing battle against cybercriminals.

Please note that Plisio also offers you:

Create Crypto Invoices in 2 Clicks and Accept Crypto Donations

12 integrations

6 libraries for the most popular programming languages

19 cryptocurrencies and 12 blockchains

Cryptojacking: How to prevent, detect, and recover from it

What is cryptojacking?

How does cryptojacking work?

Cryptojacking attack – examples

How to detect cryptojacking

Ready to Get Started?

Always know what you pay

Start your integration