Malware
16/04/2026
Malware (malicious software) is a broad category of programs designed to harm users, steal data, or profit at the victim's expense. Crypto users and miners are frequent targets due to the value they hold and handle.
Types of crypto malware
Cryptojackers
Software that secretly installs a miner on the victim's machine and mines cryptocurrency for the attacker. The victim's CPU or GPU is consumed without their knowledge, causing slowdowns, high electricity bills, and hardware wear. Cryptojacking can affect computers, servers, and even routers.
Clipboard hijackers
When a user copies a wallet address, this malware silently replaces it with the attacker's address. The user pastes what appears to be their address but is actually sending funds to the attacker. Always verify the full address before confirming a transaction.
Ransomware
Encrypts the victim's files and demands a cryptocurrency payment (usually BTC or XMR) to restore access. Ransomware targets individuals, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
Wallet stealers
Scan the system for wallet files, browser extensions, saved credentials, or seed phrases and exfiltrate them to the attacker.
Protection for miners
- Download software only from official GitHub repositories — never from third-party sites or torrent links
- Use a hardware wallet for storing accumulated mining rewards
- Keep OS and antivirus updated — most cryptojackers are caught by up-to-date AV software
- Don't disable security software — some fake miners instruct users to disable AV as part of "setup"
- Verify wallet addresses before every transaction
