AMATEUR CRYPTOJACKERS AND APPLE MACS EMERGE AS TWO MINING MALWARE TRENDS FOR 2018

The digital landscape is ever-evolving, and with it, so are the threats that lurk within. Mining malware in 2025: growth, Macs, the NSA and amateur cryptojackers 2025 was a big year for cryptojacking . It increased by 8,500 percent, according to figures published by Symantec in March.In 2025, we're witnessing a significant shift in the world of mining malware, with two key trends taking center stage: the rise of amateur cryptojackers and the increasing targeting of Apple Macs. Adware has traditionally been the most widespread type of macOS malware, but cryptojacking, a stealthy and large-scale crypto-mining scheme, is becoming increasingly prevalent. Given that crypto-mining requires a significant amount of processing power, it is likely that the ongoing advancements in Apple ARM processors will make macOS devicesCryptojacking, a stealthy crypto-mining scheme, has been on the rise for some time, but the democratization of tools and techniques has empowered even novice cybercriminals to join the fray.This has led to a surge in attacks, impacting individuals and businesses alike. And it would seem that 2025 has so far been an even bigger year for mining malware, as the Cyber Threat Alliance September report revealed that, beginning on Jan. 1, cryptojacking still had room to increase by a further 500 percent. Despite reports from some quarters showing that mining malwareAdding to the concern is the growing vulnerability of macOS devices, once considered a safer haven compared to Windows systems.The increasing processing power of Apple's ARM processors makes Macs an increasingly attractive target. See full list on sentinelone.comThis article delves deep into these emerging trends, exploring the reasons behind their rise, the methods used by attackers, and, most importantly, how you can protect yourself and your devices from becoming victims of mining malware. Ravencoin (RVN) is mined on KAWPOW, which allows mining on GPUs and CPUs. Bytecoin (BCN) like Monero, based on the CryptoNight algorithm, focused on anonymity. TurtleCoin (TRTL) is a lightweight coin based on CryptoNight, suitable for hidden mining on weak devices. Bitcoin Gold (BTG) uses the Equihash algorithm that supports GPU mining.From understanding the nuances of cryptojacking to implementing robust security measures, we'll equip you with the knowledge to navigate this evolving threat landscape.

The Explosive Growth of Cryptojacking in 2025

2025 has been a landmark year for cryptojacking.According to a Symantec report in March, cryptojacking incidents surged by a staggering 8,500%.And the upward trajectory hasn't stopped there.The Cyber Threat Alliance's September report indicates that cryptojacking has continued to climb, experiencing a further 500% increase since the beginning of the year. Here s some outright evidence of this disconcerting resemblance: the second most common Mac malware strain is a stealthy cryptocurrency mining application. DevilRobber, an oldie that keeps evolving The newsmaking cyber culprit called DevilRobber is also known to security community under other aliases, including OSX.Coinbitminer and Miner-D.These numbers paint a clear picture: cryptojacking is not just a passing fad; it's a rapidly escalating threat that demands serious attention.

But why this sudden explosion?Several factors contribute to this trend:

• Increased Cryptocurrency Value: The allure of digital currency continues to draw in both seasoned investors and those seeking a quick buck. 2025 was a big year for cryptojacking. It increased by 8,500 percent, according to figures published by Symantec in March.And it would seem that 2025 has so far been an even bigger year for mining malware, as the Cyber Threat Alliance September report revealed that, beginning on Jan. 1, cryptojacking still had room to increase by a further 500 percent.The higher the value of cryptocurrencies like Monero (XMR), the more attractive cryptojacking becomes.
• Accessibility of Mining Tools: User-friendly mining software and readily available online tutorials have lowered the barrier to entry for aspiring cryptojackers.
• Anonymity and Evasion: Cryptojacking allows attackers to generate revenue without directly engaging in more traceable activities like ransomware or data theft.It’s quieter and potentially more lucrative long-term.

The Rise of Amateur Cryptojackers

Traditionally, sophisticated cybercriminal groups have dominated the malware landscape.However, 2025 marks a turning point, with the emergence of amateur cryptojackers.These individuals, often lacking advanced technical skills, are leveraging readily available tools and resources to launch their own cryptojacking campaigns.

The availability of pre-packaged mining scripts and ""cryptojacking-as-a-service"" platforms has significantly lowered the technical barrier to entry.Now, someone with limited coding knowledge can deploy a cryptojacking attack with relative ease. Malware-based cryptojacking: In this type of attack, crypto mining malware is installed on your device via phishing emails with malicious links or by tricking users into downloading fake softwareThis democratization of cybercrime has resulted in a surge of less sophisticated, but still impactful, attacks.

The Impact of Amateur Attacks

While amateur attacks may lack the finesse and scale of those launched by professional cybercriminals, they can still inflict considerable damage. 当受害者从网上下载受感染的文件时，这种情况就会发生，而2025年这样的漏洞现在也开始对Apple Mac造成影响，而Mac一直被认为比Windows系统更安全。 美国安全公司Malwarebytes首先指出这一现象, 该公司在5月的一篇博文中 报道 了一项全新加密货币挖矿恶意软件，该Individually compromised devices can experience performance degradation, increased energy consumption, and shortened lifespan.Collectively, a network of infected devices can generate significant revenue for the attacker.

Furthermore, even basic cryptojacking attacks can serve as a stepping stone for aspiring cybercriminals.Successful amateur cryptojackers may be motivated to learn more advanced techniques, potentially evolving into more formidable threats in the future.

Apple Macs: No Longer Immune

For years, Apple Macs enjoyed a reputation for being relatively immune to malware attacks.While adware has traditionally been the most widespread type of macOS malware, this perception is rapidly changing, with cryptojacking becoming increasingly prevalent on macOS systems.This shift can be attributed to several factors:

• Increasing Processing Power: The ongoing advancements in Apple's ARM processors (like the M1 and later chips) have significantly boosted the processing power of macOS devices, making them more attractive targets for cryptojackers. Mining malware in 2025: growth, Macs, the NSA and amateur cryptojackers Amateur Cryptojackers and Apple Macs Emerge as Two Mining Malware Trends for 2025 EcosystemThese chips offer impressive performance, which translates to higher mining efficiency.
• Growing Market Share: As macOS gains market share, it becomes a more lucrative target for cybercriminals. Update, Update, Update: Keep your computers and web browsers current. Software updates often include security patches that can shield you from new malware versions. It s like staying ahead in an arms race. 2. Anti-Malware Software: Equip your devices with reputable anti-malware software. Regularly updating this software can act as yourA larger user base translates to a greater potential pool of victims.
• Perceived Security: The perception that Macs are inherently secure can lead to complacency among users, making them more vulnerable to social engineering tactics and malware infections.

DevilRobber: A Prime Example

One notable example of macOS mining malware is DevilRobber, also known as OSX.Coinbitminer and Miner-D. 2025 was a big year for cryptojacking. It increased by 8,500 percent, according to figures published by Symantec in March. And it would seem that 2025 has soThis stealthy cryptocurrency mining application has been around for some time and continues to evolve, posing a persistent threat to Mac users.DevilRobber demonstrates that Macs are not immune to cryptojacking and highlights the need for robust security measures.

The fact that DevilRobber is the second most common Mac malware strain clearly demonstrates the increasing attractiveness of Macs for cryptojackers.

Monero: The Cryptocurrency of Choice

While various cryptocurrencies can be mined through cryptojacking, Monero (XMR) has emerged as the preferred choice for many attackers.According to a Palo Alto Networks report, Monero accounts for 84.5% of all detected mining malware, compared to just 8% for Bitcoin and 7% for other coins.This preference is driven by Monero's focus on anonymity and privacy.

Monero's privacy-centric features make it difficult to trace transactions and identify the individuals involved, making it an ideal cryptocurrency for illicit activities. Despite reports from some quarters showing that mining malware detections increased in the first two quarters of 2025, other reports suggest that they have in fact decreased. Indeed, Palo AltoThis anonymity shields cryptojackers from law enforcement and reduces the risk of detection.

How Cryptojacking Works

Cryptojacking attacks can be executed through various methods. Amateur Apple Computing Crypto Cryptojackers Emerge Macs Malware Mining ProsyscomTech TrendsUnderstanding these attack vectors is crucial for implementing effective security measures.

1. Protect your Mac from malware. macOS has many features that help protect your Mac and your personal information from malicious software, or malware. One common way malware is distributed is by embedding it in a harmless-looking app. You can reduce this risk by using software only from reliable sources.Malware-Based Cryptojacking

In this type of attack, crypto mining malware is installed on your device, typically through:

• Phishing Emails: Malicious emails containing links or attachments that lead to malware downloads.
• Fake Software: Tricking users into downloading infected software from unofficial sources.
• Drive-by Downloads: Exploiting vulnerabilities in websites to silently install malware on visitors' devices.

Once installed, the malware silently mines cryptocurrency in the background, consuming system resources without the user's knowledge or consent.

2. Cointelegraph says, Amateur Cryptojackers and Apple Macs Emerge as Two Mining Malware Trends for 2025.Browser-Based Cryptojacking

This method involves injecting malicious JavaScript code into websites or online advertisements. 2025 foi um grande ano para o criptojacking (roubo de criptos). Ele aumentou em 8.500%, de acordo com n meros publicados pela Symantec em mar o.E parece que 2025 tem sido at agora um ano ainda maior para malwares de minera o, como o relat rio da Cyber Threat Alliance de setembro revelou que, a partir de 1 de janeiro, o crypjacking ainda tinha espa o para aumentar em mais 500%.When a user visits an infected website or views a compromised ad, the script executes in their browser, utilizing their device's CPU power to mine cryptocurrency.

Browser-based cryptojacking is often less persistent than malware-based attacks, as the mining activity stops when the user closes the infected webpage. To be profitable, cryptojackers need a lot of processing power. Businesses with large on-site or cloud server mining farms are popular targets, because they can be used to mine far more than even a large botnet of residential computers. Supercomputers have also been cryptojacked. Signs of CryptojackingHowever, it can still have a significant impact on device performance and battery life.

3. After successful installation, cryptojackers can start the mining process on the victim s device. Typically, malware works by harming and destroying a victim s computer once it successfully enters the operating system. However, cryptojacking through malware scripts works differently.Supply Chain Cryptojacking

A particularly insidious form of attack, supply chain cryptojacking involves compromising authentic software distribution channels to deliver mining malware. Available on Mac computers with Apple silicon and Intel-based Mac computers with a T2 Security Chip. Requires that your iPhone and Mac are signed in with the same Apple Account using two-factor authentication, your iPhone and Mac are near each other and have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on, and your Mac is not using AirPlay or Sidecar.An attacker adds mining code to software packages, updates, or dependencies.The mining components automatically deploy along with a digital signature whenever users install or update affected software.

4.Fileless Cryptojacking

Fileless cryptojacking is when the malicious code operates within the device’s memory, without writing any files to the hard drive. Despite reports from some quarters showing that mining malware detections increased in the first two quarters of 2025, other reports suggest that they have in fact decreased. Indeed, Palo Alto Networks revealed in July that Monero accounts for 84.5 percent of all detected malware, compared to 8 percent for Bitcoin and 7 percent for other coins. The reason for this is simple: Monero (XMR) isThis makes it harder for traditional antivirus software to detect, as it looks for files.

Identifying the Signs of Cryptojacking

Recognizing the symptoms of a cryptojacking infection is crucial for timely detection and remediation.

• Slow Performance: Noticeably sluggish performance, especially when running resource-intensive applications.
• Overheating: Excessive heat generation, even during light usage.
• High CPU Usage: Consistently high CPU utilization, even when no applications are actively running.
• Increased Energy Consumption: Rapid battery drain on laptops and mobile devices.
• Unusual Processes: Suspicious processes running in the background that consume significant resources.

Protecting Yourself from Cryptojacking

Fortunately, several measures can be taken to protect yourself and your devices from cryptojacking attacks.

1. 2025 war ein gro es Jahr f r Cryptojacking. Die Anzahl der F lle stieg um 8.500 Prozent, wie Zahlen zeigen, die von Symantec im M rz ver ffentlicht wurden. Und es scheint, dass 2025 bisher ein noch gr eres Jahr f r Mining-Malware war. Der Bericht der Cyber Threat Alliance vom SeptemberInstall Anti-Malware Software

Equip your devices with reputable anti-malware software and keep it regularly updated. See how Google Trends is being used across the world, by newsrooms, charities, and more ‪‪Visualizing Google Trends data‬‬ Welcome to our data visualization project: where the Trends Data Team works with the best designers around the world to tell stories with data and make the results open sourceThis software can detect and remove cryptojacking malware before it can cause harm.

2.Use Browser Extensions

Install browser extensions specifically designed to block cryptojacking scripts. Supply chain cryptojacking hijacks authentic software distribution channels to deliver mining malware instead. An attacker adds mining code to software packages, updates, or dependencies. The mining components automatically deploy along with a digital signature whenever users install or update affected software. 4. Fileless CryptojackingPopular options include NoCoin, MinerBlock, and AdGuard. Apple Footer. Apple Intelligence is available in beta on all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad and Mac models with M1 and later, with Siri and device language set to English (Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, UK or US), as part of an iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia software update.These extensions prevent known cryptojacking scripts from executing on websites.

3.Keep Software Updated

Regularly update your operating system, web browsers, and other software.Software updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities exploited by cryptojackers.

4. Popular options include NoCoin, MinerBlock, and AdGuard. These extensions prevent known cryptojacking scripts from executing on websites, ensuring your browser remains free from mining malware. They are handy for blocking browser-based cryptojacking, a prevalent attack vector. How to Remove Cryptojacking Malware from Infected DevicesBe Cautious of Phishing Emails

Exercise caution when opening emails from unknown senders, especially those containing links or attachments.Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources.

5.Monitor System Resources

Regularly monitor your system resources, such as CPU usage and battery consumption. Cryptojacking is the hot new way for criminals to make money using your hardware.Unusual spikes in resource usage could indicate a cryptojacking infection.

6. How does crypto mining malware differ from traditional malware? Crypto mining malware is a specific type of malicious software that focuses on utilizing the infected system s resources to mine cryptocurrencies, while traditional malware encompasses a broader category that includes viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.Use a Firewall

Enable and configure a firewall to block unauthorized network connections.A firewall can prevent malicious scripts from communicating with command-and-control servers.

7.Update Your Passwords

It's generally a good idea to keep your passwords complex, difficult to guess and update them regularly.A password manager can help you with this.

8.Disable JavaScript (with caution)

While somewhat drastic, disabling JavaScript in your web browser can prevent browser-based cryptojacking attacks.However, this may also break the functionality of some websites. via Cointelegraph.com News . The National Security Agency and amateur cryptojackers are both behind this year s growth in mining malwareConsider using a browser extension that allows you to selectively enable JavaScript on trusted sites.

Removing Cryptojacking Malware

If you suspect that your device has been infected with cryptojacking malware, take immediate action to remove it:

1. Run a Full System Scan: Use your anti-malware software to perform a full system scan and remove any detected threats.
2. Check Browser Extensions: Review your browser extensions and remove any that you don't recognize or trust.
3. Monitor System Activity: Use Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS) to identify and terminate any suspicious processes.
4. Reinstall Operating System (if necessary): In severe cases, you may need to reinstall your operating system to completely remove the malware.

Cryptojacking vs. 2025 fue un gran a o para el criptojacking. Se increment en un 8 500 por ciento, seg n las cifras publicadas por Symantec en marzo.De igual modo, parece que 2025 ha sido hasta ahora un a o a n m s importante para el malware de miner a, tal y como revel el informe de la Cyber Threat Alliance del 7 de septiembre que, a partir del 1 de enero, el criptojacking todav a puede aumentarTraditional Malware: Key Differences

While cryptojacking falls under the broad umbrella of malware, it differs from traditional malware in several key aspects:

• Purpose: Cryptojacking aims to silently mine cryptocurrency using the infected system's resources, while traditional malware encompasses a wider range of malicious activities, such as data theft, system corruption, and ransomware attacks.
• Symptoms: Cryptojacking typically manifests as slow performance and high resource usage, while traditional malware may exhibit a broader range of symptoms, such as system crashes, data loss, and unusual network activity.
• Detection: Cryptojacking can be more difficult to detect than traditional malware, as it operates silently in the background and often doesn't trigger traditional security alerts.

The Future of Cryptojacking

The cryptojacking landscape is likely to continue evolving in the coming years.We can expect to see:

• More Sophisticated Techniques: Attackers will likely develop more sophisticated techniques to evade detection and maximize mining efficiency.
• Increased Targeting of Cloud Resources: Businesses with large cloud server farms are attractive targets for cryptojackers, as they offer significant processing power.
• Greater Focus on Mobile Devices: As mobile devices become more powerful, they will likely become increasingly targeted by cryptojackers.
• Cryptojacking in IoT Devices: The growing number of IoT devices presents a new attack surface for cryptojackers.Vulnerable IoT devices can be easily compromised and used to mine cryptocurrency.

Conclusion: Staying Ahead of the Threat

The rise of amateur cryptojackers and the increasing targeting of Apple Macs represent significant shifts in the mining malware landscape.By understanding these emerging trends and implementing robust security measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.Remember to install reputable anti-malware software, keep your software updated, be cautious of phishing emails, and monitor your system resources regularly.As the cryptojacking threat continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive is crucial for protecting your devices and data.The key takeaways are to remain vigilant, educate yourself on the latest threats, and take preventative measures to safeguard your digital assets. Amateur cryptojackers will continue to refine their methods, and Apple Macs will remain a target, but a proactive approach to security will greatly diminish the threat to your devices.Don't wait until you're a victim; take action today to protect yourself from the ever-evolving world of cryptojacking.Consider reviewing your current security protocols, and implement the strategies discussed in this article to create a robust defense against these evolving threats.