Has your computer ever started lagging for no clear reason? Maybe programs take longer to load, or your fan is constantly whirring even when you're doing something simple. Before blaming bad luck or outdated hardware, consider a lesser-known—but growing—threat: cryptojacking.
What Is Cryptojacking?
Cryptojacking is when cybercriminals hijack your device to mine cryptocurrency—without your knowledge or permission. While you go about your day, their software runs silently in the background, consuming your device’s processing power to generate digital coins. You don’t see it happening, but your device pays the price.
Think of it like a criminal siphoning a bit of fuel from thousands of cars. One car’s worth of gas might not be missed—but put together, it adds up to a serious payday.
Why It Matters (Even If Your Data Isn’t Stolen)
Unlike ransomware or phishing, cryptojacking doesn't directly steal your data. But that doesn’t mean it’s harmless.
For individuals, the impact can include:
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Slower performance across all devices
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Increased electricity bills
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Overheating and hardware damage due to constant background activity
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Shortened device lifespan from wear and tear
For businesses, the consequences are even more costly:
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Entire networks may be slowed down, affecting employee productivity
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IT teams waste time troubleshooting performance issues
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Companies may receive massive cloud computing bills if hackers mine on corporate servers
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Operational goals and project timelines suffer
Many organizations don’t even realize they’ve been compromised until the financial or performance costs pile up.
How Does Cryptojacking Happen?
Cybercriminals use a variety of sneaky methods to infiltrate your devices:
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Compromised websites and ads: Simply visiting an infected site can activate a hidden mining script
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Hijacked browser extensions: Some seemingly legitimate extensions have been secretly modified to mine crypto
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Malicious apps: That free game or utility app might be mining in the background
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Phishing attacks: One click on a shady link or file can install mining software silently
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Exploiting outdated systems: If your software isn’t patched, hackers can inject mining scripts through known security gaps
How to Defend Against Cryptojacking
The good news is that cryptojacking is avoidable. Awareness is your first line of defense.
Here are a few ways to protect yourself:
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Install a trusted antivirus or anti-malware solution and keep it up to date
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Avoid installing unknown browser extensions or applications from unofficial sources
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Patch and update your software regularly to close off known vulnerabilities
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Be cautious with links and attachments—especially from unknown senders
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Monitor your devices for performance issues. If things are unusually slow, don’t ignore it
Cryptojacking may be invisible, but its effects are very real. By staying alert and protecting your devices, you can stop hackers from mining on your dime—and keep your systems running smoothly.
Stay smart. Stay secure. And don’t let your computer become someone else’s crypto farm. Call us at 905-228-4809!
