Unauthorised use of someone's computing resources to mine cryptocurrency.
Cryptojacking hijacks victims' computing resources to mine cryptocurrency for attackers' profit. It can operate through malware installed on systems or through scripts running in web browsers when visiting compromised sites. Cryptojacking consumes CPU/GPU resources, increases electricity costs, degrades performance, and accelerates hardware wear. While less immediately damaging than ransomware, cryptojacking indicates compromise and can affect business operations through performance impacts.
Why It Matters
The DSC Perspective:
Cryptojacking is often overlooked because it doesn't cause obvious damage. Unexplained performance issues, high CPU usage, or increased electricity bills may indicate cryptojacking. Endpoint protection and network monitoring can detect mining activity.