WHAT IS A CRYPTO MINING MALWARE?
A stealthy malware that affects the resources on a device such as computers, mobile etc. which are connected to the internet is known as crypto-mining malware. The malware works on generating revenue for the cybercriminals in control of it. The process is known as cryptojacking and can affect the performance, privacy, and browsing methods of a device.
These crypto miners use servers in order to get high processing power without permission with an aim to steal bitcoins using the resources in a way that users wouldn’t know. The malware occurs while downloading an unauthorized file from an unsafe browser. Crypto mining malware can be downloaded if the user is unaware of the authentication of the file and does not use an adequate antivirus. One must avoid using such links and stick to only verified websites in order to download a resource into the computer.
Crypto mining malware can result in
- Slowing down of the system
- Increase in processor usage
- Higher power bills
- Device overheating
CRYPTOJACKING
The unauthorized usage of someone else’s device in order to mine crypto coins by persuading the user to access malicious links is termed cryptojacking.
Once the user accesses the malicious link, it results in crypto mining code loading on the computer in the background. This does not allow the user to suspect a thing as the code runs in the background, with a single caution sign of the computer becoming slow and lagging in execution. Cryptojacking can also be done by clicking on a fraudulent online ad or website.
REMOVING CRYPTO-MINING MALWARE (WORDPRESS)
WordPress files are modified to place a malware code in most cases. In fact, the theme file has also been hacked in order to place the JavaScript crypto-mining code by the attackers. This is done by checking the user-agent of the request and consists of only the Javascript malicious code if the visitor is not a bot from Google or any other browser.
Files one must check and remove the source in order to get rid of the crypto mining malware
- php
- wp-admin/admin-header.php
- wp-includes/general-template.php
- wp-includes/default-filters.php
- wp-includes/manifest.php.
- php in a theme folder
- php
OTHER WAYS OF STOPPING THE SPREAD OF CRYPTO MINING MALWARE – PREVENTION
1. DISABLE JAVASCRIPT
If one wants to block the attacks completely, disabling JavaScript from browsers can be the ideal option. However, some legitimate websites use JavaScript and might not allow one to disable it as it may lead to certain browsing difficulties.
2. DEPLOYING EXTENSIONS
Another very prevalent way of diminishing the spread of the malware is through browser extensions working on web-based crypto-mining attacks. This method includes solutions developed by both the browser and the open-source extension, being added on. For example, MinerBlocker and No Coin solutions monitor activities, detect suspicious one, and block them. Both are available with extensions from chrome, firefox, and opera.
3. BLOCKING DOMAINS
This is another dedicated method of reducing the spread of the attack. It includes blocking the domain after surveying its activity if found suspicious. The basic steps of blocking domains include:
- Open browser
- Find the “customize” drop-down menu
- look for the domain and block the URL
4. SOFTWARE-BASED AD BLOCKERS
As the world of the bitcoin era is advancing, so is the rate of cyber-attacks and the need to adopt a guaranteed malware removal system. Software ad-blockers are the highest prioritized cyber-attack prevention tool in the blockchain world. A majority of ad-blockers now include a coin hive blocker, a form of crypto mining malware being used at a high rate. The blocker filters the script from running on the browser. A script blocker is needed if the ad-blocker is already installed on the devices.
SUMMARY:
We have seen an upsurge in cyber cases when it comes to cryptocurrency and blockchain. For optimal health of the device, blocking browser mining scripts is a needed step that makes sure the functional efficiency of the system. Preventing devices from malware is neither complex nor requires tons of effort and money. Frequent monitoring, scanning of files, installing reliable ad-blockers, updating anti-malware software are some fundamental yet needed steps that can ensure your devices are free from any sort of crypto-mining malware. Apart from this also need to know everything about the Bitcoin exchange before you open a trading account.
