cryptojacking definition

What Is Cryptojacking?

Cryptojacking refers to the unauthorized use of someone’s computing resources for cryptocurrency mining.

In this context, attackers covertly hijack the processing power of your computer, smartphone, or cloud server to mine cryptocurrencies and redirect the profits to their own wallets. Common entry points include malicious scripts hidden in web pages, software disguised as legitimate applications, and cloud environments with weak configurations or leaked credentials.

A mining pool is a collective server where multiple users combine their computational power to increase the chances of earning mining rewards, which are then distributed according to each participant’s contribution. In cryptojacking attacks, victims’ devices are often connected to mining pools specified by the attacker to maximize stealth and profits.

Why Does Cryptojacking Matter?

It can damage both your hardware and your finances.

For individuals, cryptojacking causes devices to slow down, fans to run loudly, excessive power consumption, overheating, and reduced hardware lifespan. For businesses and project teams, compromised cloud servers may experience maxed-out CPU usage, sluggish performance, sudden spikes in cloud bills, or resource abuse that impacts other systems.

Within the Web3 ecosystem, cryptojacking is often linked with account security risks: attackers may seize the opportunity to steal browser-stored mnemonic phrases or cookies, potentially leading to asset theft. This escalates an issue from simply “wasting computational resources” to posing direct “asset risks.”

How Does Cryptojacking Work?

There are typically three main attack vectors:

1. Web Scripts: Attackers inject mining scripts or WebAssembly code into web pages. When you visit these sites, your browser’s CPU usage surges as your device mines cryptocurrency for the attacker, with rewards sent directly to their wallet address.

2. Malicious Software: Malicious programs masquerade as drivers, cracked applications, or browser extensions. Once installed, they download mining software (such as XMRig), set themselves to launch at startup, consume system resources over the long term, and often mask their process names.

3. Cloud & Container Environments: Attackers scan for exposed SSH ports, Docker daemons, or Kubernetes instances with weak credentials. Upon gaining access, they deploy miner containers, disable monitoring services, and may modify resource quotas to ensure continuous mining operations.

Monero (XMR) is a common target for cryptojackers due to its CPU-friendly mining algorithm and strong privacy features, but other mineable coins compatible with CPU or GPU mining can also be targeted.

What Does Cryptojacking Look Like in the Crypto World?

Cryptojacking typically manifests in browsing, trading, node operation, and cloud resource scenarios.

• On DApp or NFT related websites, phishing pages may contain mining scripts. While browsing such sites, your CPU usage may spike—an indicator visible in your browser’s task manager.
• On exchanges like Gate, compromised devices might experience abnormal CPU spikes or loud fan noise when accessing market data or community pages. Worse still, malicious extensions can steal session information for unauthorized logins or API calls.
• On nodes and cloud servers running full nodes or backend services, misconfigurations can allow attackers to deploy miner containers that consume all available cores, causing block synchronization delays and degraded service performance.

How Can You Reduce the Risk of Cryptojacking?

Start with personal devices:

1. Update Systems & Extensions: Keep your OS and browsers updated; uninstall unnecessary extensions. Only use trusted extensions—avoid those offering “free acceleration” or “VIP access.”
2. Monitor CPU Usage: Use Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS) to spot abnormal processes. If a browser tab spikes CPU usage upon opening, close it and clear your cache and extensions.
3. Install Security Tools: Use ad-blockers or security extensions capable of blocking mining scripts. Enable local antivirus or EDR solutions to detect miner programs and unauthorized startup entries.

For cloud and container environments:

1. Reduce Exposure: Disable public Docker daemons; change SSH ports and require key-based authentication. Enable RBAC and network policies for Kubernetes to restrict external connections from pods.
2. Set Quotas & Alerts: Define CPU/memory quotas and limits for namespaces and nodes. Configure alerts for sustained high CPU usage so anomalies can be traced to specific pods or containers.
3. Manage Images & Secrets: Use only trusted images with vulnerability scanning enabled; store cloud keys in a key management service rather than embedding them in environment variables or code repositories.

For exchange account security (using Gate as an example):

1. Enable 2FA & Login Protection: Check the list of login devices in the “Security Center” and remove any unfamiliar devices promptly.
2. Manage API Keys: Only create keys when necessary; assign minimal permissions and restrict by IP whitelist. Rotate keys regularly and disable those not in use.
3. Withdrawal & Risk Controls: Enable withdrawal address whitelisting and set up large transaction alerts. If you notice suspicious logins or API activity, freeze your account immediately and contact support.

Recent Trends and Data on Cryptojacking

From 2024 through late 2025, attacks on cloud and container environments have surged.

Recent security reports show that browser-based mining scripts are declining while incidents targeting cloud and container infrastructure are on the rise—Kubernetes is frequently cited as a primary entry point. In 2023, intercepted cryptojacking cases increased several-fold; this trend has continued into 2024–2025, with a notable shift toward cloud environments.

On the cost side, public cases from Q3 2025 indicate that a single cryptojacking incident can drive unexpected cloud bills ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of USD. Alerts for “sustained 100% CPU usage” and “suspicious outbound traffic to mining pool domains” are common warning signs.

Monero remains a preferred target due to its CPU efficiency and privacy features. Attackers are increasingly leveraging containerization and automation scripts for deployment to minimize human involvement. Defensive measures such as resource quotas, egress network policies, and image scanning are seeing wider adoption throughout 2025.

How Is Cryptojacking Different from Ransomware?

They have different objectives, symptoms, and remediation priorities.

Cryptojacking aims for persistent resource hijacking for profit—it prioritizes stealth and long-term presence. Ransomware encrypts your files for ransom demands—its focus is rapid disruption and immediate monetization.

Symptoms of cryptojacking include spikes in CPU/GPU usage and overheating devices; ransomware typically results in inaccessible files accompanied by ransom notes. Remediation for cryptojacking involves locating and removing miners and closing entry points while patching configurations and secrets; ransomware requires network isolation, backup restoration, and data breach risk assessment.

Both threats may exploit similar initial attack vectors such as weak passwords or phishing emails—making fundamental security practices like regular updates, least privilege access controls, and strong secret management effective against both.

Key Terms

• Cryptojacking: The malicious practice of using someone else’s computing resources without authorization to mine cryptocurrency.
• Malware: Malicious software used for cryptojacking attacks; often spread via phishing emails or exploiting vulnerabilities.
• Mining: The process of validating transactions using computing power to earn cryptocurrency rewards.
• Botnet: A network of infected devices controlled by malware for coordinated mining operations.
• Proof of Work: A consensus mechanism that secures blockchain networks by requiring miners to solve complex mathematical problems.

FAQ

How Can Cryptojacking Affect My Crypto Wallet?

Cryptojacking mainly drains your device’s resources for mining rather than directly stealing funds; however, prolonged infections can severely degrade device performance and spike electricity bills. More critically, attackers may install additional malware that could compromise your wallet security and personal privacy. Prompt detection and removal are crucial.

How Do I Know If My Device Is Cryptojacked?

Typical signs include consistently high CPU usage, loud fan noise, overheating devices, slow internet speeds, or rapid battery drain. Check Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS) for unknown processes using excessive resources, or run a scan with professional security software. If you find suspicious processes, terminate them immediately and perform a full malware clean-up.

Are Browser Mining Scripts the Same as Cryptojacking?

Both exploit your device’s resources for mining but differ in nature. Browser-based mining scripts are codes embedded in websites (sometimes disclosed or hidden) that stop when you close the page; cryptojacking involves malicious software that runs persistently without authorization—even after you close your browser. The key difference is that cryptojacking is more covert and persistent, making it more harmful.

Can Smartphones Be Targeted by Cryptojacking?

Yes—smartphones are also vulnerable to cryptojacking, especially when users download untrusted apps or visit phishing websites. Android devices are particularly at risk due to their open ecosystem. Infections lead to overheating, rapid battery drain, and sluggish performance. Protection measures include only installing apps from official stores, keeping the system updated, installing security apps, and being cautious about unusual app permission requests.

What Should I Do If I Clicked on a Phishing Link?

Immediately disconnect your device from the internet to prevent further malware downloads or data leaks. Restart in safe mode and run a comprehensive scan using official antivirus software. If you’ve managed crypto assets on this device, quickly change all passwords on a secure device and review accounts for suspicious activity. If needed, consult professional cybersecurity experts for a thorough checkup.