Let’s be honest—just when we think we’ve gotten a grip on cybersecurity, something new slips in. This time, it’s cryptojacking. And no, it’s not science fiction.
Cryptojacking is real, it's happening, and it could already be affecting your systems—without a single alarm going off.
What Is Cryptojacking?
In plain terms, it’s when cybercriminals secretly install software on your computers, tablets, or even smart devices. That software then uses your systems to mine cryptocurrency - digital money -for the hacker’s benefit.
It doesn’t ask for ransom. It doesn’t lock your files. It simply hijacks your computing power quietly, slowing everything down while making money for someone else.
Why This Matters to You
If you’re managing a long-term care or retirement home, you're already dealing with thin margins, tight regulations, and systems that have to be reliable. Cryptojacking threatens that reliability -without setting off the kind of red flags we’re used to with ransomware or phishing.
And unfortunately, this isn’t theoretical.
Real Cases, Real Consequences
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The Smominru Botnet infected over 500,000 machines, generating nearly $3 million in cryptocurrency for cybercriminals—all in under a year.
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In 2018, over 4,000 government and university websites were compromised, with cryptojacking scripts secretly mining currency on every visitor’s device.
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More recently, pirated software - like video editing tools - was found to contain cryptojacking malware. It even paused itself anytime someone opened Task Manager, so it wouldn’t get caught.
This is clever. This is quiet. And it’s increasingly common.
Why Criminals Love It
Unlike ransomware, cryptojacking doesn’t trigger investigations or police reports. It doesn’t frighten residents or bring media attention. It just works - silently.
In fact, a major ransomware group known as Astra Locker shut down their entire operation to focus on cryptojacking. Not because they were caught. Because it was more profitable and less risky.
And when cryptocurrency prices go up? So do cryptojacking attacks.
What It Means for Canadian Care Homes
You don’t need to be running a hospital to be a target. Facilities across Ontario - including here in Niagara - are just as vulnerable, especially if:
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Devices are outdated.
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Security patches are delayed.
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Staff aren’t trained on cyber hygiene.
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You rely on remote access or IoT devices.
Worse still, experts say the threat is evolving:
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Smart gadgets, like security cameras and digital signage, are now being targeted.
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Blended malware is becoming more common - software that both mines cryptocurrency and steals personal data.
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Network-wide infections are rising. Hackers don’t just want one machine; they want your whole system working for them.
In your world, where EMRs, nurse call systems, and medication records are mission-critical, even a slight slowdown can have big consequences.
How to Protect Your Facility
You don’t have to become a cybersecurity expert - but you do need someone in your corner. Here’s where to start:
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Keep software up to date – Old systems are easy entry points.
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Watch your CPU usage – If your machines are running hot for no reason, something could be mining.
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Educate your staff – A quick training can prevent a costly mistake.
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Partner with an MSP who understands healthcare – You need someone who knows PHIPA, understands your audit schedule, and can respond fast when something feels off.
Let’s Talk Plainly
This isn’t just about machines.
It’s about your peace of mind. About making sure your team isn’t slowed down. About knowing that resident care won’t suffer because someone, somewhere, decided to siphon off your computing power.
Your job is hard enough. Technology shouldn’t make it harder.
If you’re unsure where your risks might be, we can help. Quietly. Professionally. No scare tactics - just a real assessment with a healthcare lens.
Because here in Niagara, we believe care comes first—and that includes caring for your digital infrastructure.
Let’s schedule a cyber wellness check for your systems - before cryptojackers take more than just your processing power. Call us at 905-228-4809.
