Cryptojacking is coin mining done with your device's resources without permission. Attackers use your CPU/GPU (and sometimes your browser) to generate cryptocurrency revenue.
In 2026, cryptojacking is commonly installed with “free” downloads, fake updates, malicious browser scripts, or trojans that start mining after infection.
📑 Table of Contents
🧠 What cryptojacking is
In practical terms, cryptojacking causes:
- unexpected high CPU/GPU usage
- fan noise, overheating, and battery drain
- slower performance and delayed app responses
Warning: cryptojacking may be part of a bigger infection chain. If you suspect malware, run security scans and then review accounts for compromise.
🚩 Signs it is happening
- fans spinning loudly when you are idle
- battery drops fast on mobile
- browser tabs or extensions consume unusual resources
- new unknown processes or suspicious startup items
- slow system performance and increased latency
🧩 How cryptojacking gets installed
- bundled installers from “free” software sites
- fake updates and browser notification scams
- malicious browser scripts on compromised pages
- trojans that hide and mine in the background
🧼 How to remove it safely
- Disconnect from the internet if you suspect active compromise.
- Close browsers and remove suspicious tabs/extensions.
- Run a reputable anti-malware scan and remove detected threats.
- Check startup items and scheduled tasks for unknown entries.
- Restart and monitor CPU usage again for several minutes.
- If passwords/codes may have been exposed, change them on a clean device.
Related emergency workflow: What to Do If Your Account Was Hacked.
🛡️ Prevention: stop future infections
- Avoid cracked software and unofficial download links.
- Keep browser/OS updated.
- Be cautious with “free premium” pages and popups.
- Use safe browsing habits: How to Browse Safely Online in 2026.
⚡ Reduce account damage too
Malware sometimes steals credentials. Protect your login layer with 2FA.
🔐 Enable 2FA