Is your computer lagging? Is the GPU noisy? Maybe you have a hidden crypto miner.

Since you are reading this article, you have probably already noticed something suspicious: the browser is slow, the CPU is loaded at over 60%, and the laptop is as hot as a kettle. It's good that you are aware of this - many people do not understand what is happening.

What does this virus actually do?

Hidden crypto miner ( or cryptojacking ) is essentially an unauthorized renting out of your equipment. Malicious actors install a script on your PC or embed it in a website that begins mining cryptocurrency at your expense. Your: graphics card, processor, RAM, and electricity. Their: profit.

Two types of this creature:

• Browser mining – lives on infected sites, activates upon visiting
• Classic virus – installs on the PC, runs at every startup

How to recognize an infection?

✓ The PC is lagging, even though you are not doing anything heavy. ✓ The graphics card fan is hot and making noise for no reason ✓ The Task Manager shows unknown processes with strange names like (Asikadl.exe). ✓ The browser detects damage or is loading slowly ✓ RAM is being used surprisingly actively

How to get rid of?

Quick option:

1. Download the antivirus (Dr. Web performs a deep scan)
2. Run a full scan
3. Remove the found item, restart the PC
4. Run CCleaner to clean the system

Manual check ( if the antivirus does not notice ):

• Open the registry (Win+R → regedit) and look for suspicious processes
• Check the task scheduler (Win+R → taskschd.msc) for the auto tasks that run when the PC is turned on.
• Turn off all unknowns, then delete

How to prevent them from doing this again?

• Install a reliable antivirus and update it regularly
• Do not visit suspicious websites without HTTPS (lock in the browser)
• Block JavaScript in the browser settings ( or install uBlock Origin )
• Turn on crypto-mining protection in Chrome (Settings → Privacy and security)
• Do not run programs as an administrator indiscriminately.
• Set a password for Wi-Fi and Windows
• Make a scan every month just in case

Technology is like a machine: if you don't take care of it, it will start to fall apart before your eyes. Only here, money falls apart 😅