Cryptojacking

Cryptojacking definition

Cryptojacking refers to the unauthorized use of someone's computing resources to mine cryptocurrencies without their knowledge or consent. The process involves cybercriminals infecting computers, smartphones, or even websites with malicious code or software that secretly uses the device's processing power to mine cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or other altcoins.

This form of cyber attack has become increasingly prevalent due to the rising popularity of cryptocurrencies. Cryptojacking can cause significant performance issues on infected devices, leading to slower processing speeds, increased energy consumption, and potential damage to hardware components.

To protect against cryptojacking, it's crucial to use up-to-date antivirus software, avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files, and regularly update software and security patches. Additionally, website owners should implement security measures to prevent their sites from being compromised and used for cryptojacking purposes.

The mechanics of cryptojacking

To understand the mechanics of cryptojacking, let's break it down into three main components: delivery, execution, and mining.

Delivery

Cryptojacking attacks can be delivered through various means, including:

Malicious websites: Attackers create websites or inject malicious scripts into legitimate websites that, when visited, secretly initiate the cryptojacking process.

Malvertising: Attackers leverage online advertising networks to distribute ads containing malicious code. When users click on these ads, the cryptojacking script is executed.

Email attachments and phishing: Attackers may send phishing emails with infected attachments, and if opened, the cryptojacking script is deployed.

Compromised software or systems: Attackers exploit vulnerabilities in software or systems to gain unauthorized access and deploy the cryptojacking script.

Execution

Once the delivery method is successful, the cryptojacking script is executed on the victim's computer or device. The script typically uses JavaScript, which is supported by most web browsers, making it a popular choice for cryptojacking. The script runs in the background, often hidden within a website or application, consuming the victim's computing resources.

Mining

The executed script connects the victim's device to a mining pool or directly to the attacker's mining server. It then harnesses the victim's processing power and computational resources to perform cryptocurrency mining operations, specifically for cryptocurrencies that are easily mineable using CPUs or GPUs. Monero (XMR) is a popular choice due to its CPU-friendly mining algorithm (Cryptonight).

The mining script solves complex mathematical problems to validate cryptocurrency transactions on the blockchain and earn cryptocurrency rewards. As the victim's device performs the mining calculations, it consumes significant amounts of CPU/GPU resources, leading to increased power consumption, reduced device performance, and potential hardware damage.

To evade detection, some cryptojacking scripts employ techniques like throttling the mining process to lower resource consumption when the user becomes active or implementing anti-analysis mechanisms to evade security measures.

Maintaining awareness of potential indicators of cryptojacking, such as abnormal CPU usage or sluggish system performance, can aid in early detection and prompt response to mitigate the effects of these attacks.

Types of cryptojacking attacks

There are two primary types of cryptojacking: browser-based and file-based, each with its own distinct characteristics and mechanisms.

Browser-based cryptojacking

Browser-based cryptojacking is a type of cyber attack where malicious actors inject harmful scripts into websites. These scripts exploit the processing power of visitors' web browsers to mine cryptocurrencies without their consent or knowledge. When a user accesses an infected website, the malicious script runs in the background, utilizing the victim's computational resources to perform complex cryptographic calculations required for mining. This method allows attackers to harness the combined computing power of numerous compromised devices, maximizing their chances of generating cryptocurrency. Browser-based cryptojacking poses a significant threat as it can impact the performance of affected devices, drain battery life, and compromise user privacy and security.

In 2018, Los Angeles Times newspaper fell victim to a browser-based cryptojacking scheme that was mining the Monero cryptocurrency with the CPU of the web page visitors. The scheme carried on for a while, until eventually being spotted and removed.

File-based cryptojacking

With file-based cryptojacking, malicious files are downloaded and executed on a victim's device to mine cryptocurrencies without their consent. In this method, attackers typically distribute malware-infected files through various channels such as email attachments, software downloads, or compromised websites. Once the victim unknowingly opens or executes the malicious file, it deploys hidden mining software in the background, utilizing the device's computational resources for cryptocurrency mining. File-based cryptojacking allows attackers to exploit the victim's device for an extended period, often leading to significant resource consumption, reduced system performance, and increased energy usage.

In the year 2018, cryptojackers set their sights on an industrial control system belonging to a European water utility. The consequences were severe, as the operational technology network of the utility plant fell victim to the attack, resulting in a significant disruption. The incident underscored the urgent need for heightened cybersecurity measures to safeguard critical infrastructure and prevent future disruptions of essential services.

Impact, detection, and prevention of cryptojacking

Cryptojacking can have several negative impacts on individuals and organizations. The unauthorized use of computational resources can lead to reduced system performance, increased energy consumption, and higher electricity bills. Additionally, cryptojacking can compromise data security and privacy, as the presence of malware opens the door to further cyber attacks.

Detecting cryptojacking can be challenging, as attackers employ stealthy techniques to evade detection. However, some signs that may indicate cryptojacking include sluggish system performance, increased CPU usage, and unexplained spikes in electricity consumption. Monitoring network traffic and using specialized security tools can aid in the detection process.

To prevent cryptojacking, individuals and organizations should implement several proactive measures. These include:

• Keeping software and applications up to date to patch any vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit.
• Using reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to detect and block cryptojacking scripts.
• Enabling strong browser security settings and regularly clearing browser cache and cookies.
• Employing ad-blocking and script-blocking browser extensions to prevent malicious scripts from running.
• Educating employees and individuals about the risks of cryptojacking and the importance of safe browsing habits.
• Monitoring system performance and network traffic for any unusual activity.
• Lastly, be aware of any suspicious mail attachments or unsolicited files sent via social media. 

By adopting these preventive measures and remaining vigilant, individuals and organizations can reduce the risk of falling victim to cryptojacking attacks and protect their computational resources and data.

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