As Crypto adoption grows worldwide, some nefarious softwares have also crept in, causing irrecoverable loss of assets to both organizations and crypto lovers. Among these nefarious elements, “crypto malware” stands as the most infamous, malicious program that can breach computer systems and carry unwarranted mining operations without users’ knowledge.
In this article, we will study all about Crypto malware, how to identify if your computer system has been affected by it and ways to safeguard against such attacks.
What is Crypto Malware?
Crypto malware refers to programs that sneak into your computer to mine cryptocurrencies. They are malicious software used to carry out malicious activities without your knowledge. These kinds of attacks consume computer resources without the owner’s knowledge.
Even when we don’t use cryptocurrencies, there are still chances of substantial damage caused by these malicious softwares. For example, even with platforms like the top crypto sweepstakes casinos, one has to ensure to use crypto malware detection to avoid losses.
How is Crypto Malware different from regular malware attacks?
Crypto malware attacks are different from other malware attacks because they occur more frequently when crypto value fluctuates. When crypto became valuable a few years back, crypto-malware attacks surged. Unlike most malware, crypto-malware doesn’t aim to steal data. Instead, it leverages the victim’s device to mine for cryptocurrency for as long as possible.
How to detect Crypto Malware Infection?
Crypto malware infections manifest in different ways. Below is a breakdown of some of the signs of a crypto-malware infection:
Increased CPU Usage
Crypto malware tends to target the central processing unit (CPU) of the computer. The CPU is the primary processing component that coordinates the operating systems. As such, computers affected by crypto-malware often experience a surge in CPU usage. A sudden spike in CPU usage, especially when the system is idle, is a sign of crypto-malware infection.
Slow Performance
Crypto malware’s heavy reliance on the CPU leads to a decline in system performance. This can be due to overburdening the CPU with mining operations. When infected with crypto-malware, problems such as slow performance may surface. Another common problem associated with slow performance is system lag.
Unusual Network Activity
Whenever you notice unusual network activity, it could be a result of crypto-malware. Crypto malware is set up to ping external servers for instructions, so irregular network patterns could indicate potential infections.
How To Defend Against Crypto-malware Attacks
Since crypto-malware attacks are a new phenomenon, they are challenging to detect. This makes it difficult for them to defend against it. In most cases, the best line of defense is responsible online activity on the user’s part.
For individual users
● Do not click unsolicited links or download unexpected attachments.
● Only access URLs that begin with HTTPS.
● Always use a spam filter to prevent most infected emails from getting to your inbox.
● Invest in cybersecurity software. This will help detect threats and stop them before they infect your device.
● Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. This makes it far more difficult for attackers to exploit.
For Organizations
● Integrate remote services and multifactor authentication (MFA) solutions.
● Machine learning and anomaly detection algorithms are used to detect attacks.
● Scan received messages, including the Attachment Detail property, for malware-related attachment types.
● Create a training program for employees. Educate them about the risks, attack indicators, and other exploit techniques.
Future Trends
Based on current trends, crypto-malware attacks will likely increase in coming days. This is due to shifting priorities toward high-profile cybercrimes like data breaches.
As new technologies emerge, traditional security must find ways to combat and prevent attacks. This will increase the integrity of the crypto space and ensure privacy for regular internet users.
