Protecting Your Business Against Cryptojacking

What is Cryptojacking?

Cryptojacking is the secret use of your computing device to mine cryptocurrency.

How it is utilized?

Cryptojacking or cryptocurrency mining works by websites running hidden mining scripts in your browser without your knowledge/consent. They mine by using your computer’s processor to earn money for someone else. Your machine may get hot, loud, and slow.

How Do I Protect My Business?

I always suggest keeping your browser up to date, along with keeping your end-users and network secured on all layers. While there are browser extensions and add-ons available for Firefox and Google Chrome to prevent cryptojacking, Opera introduced an official setting in its browser that blocks the practice. This practice should be utilized on mobile browsers too as a single page can take up to 4.5 hours of battery life from your device.

Reports say there are more than 3 million websites exposed to cryptojacking. In December 2018, Trend Micro discovered mining malware that was spread through Facebook Messenger.

The blocking feature on Opera Mini and Opera for Android can be enabled in ‘Settings.’ To find out if your browser is affected by cryptomining head to Opera’s website: www.cryptojackingtest.com