Is cryptocurrency mining malware the new adware?

[Deleted member 178]

No matter what critics say, it’s clear we’re in the midst of a digital gold rush.

Many cryptocurrencies have exploded in value in recent months; Ethereum, for instance, skyrocketed from $8 at the start of 2017 to $289 at the time of writing, while Litecoin’s value grew from $4 to $50 across the same time period. The total market capitalization of cryptocurrencies jumped to almost $180 bn from $19 bn in only 8 months!

Of course, it’s not only tech-savvy investors who are enjoying the frothy conditions. The lively crypto market has naturally drawn the attention of cybercriminals and hackers, but it’s also attracting crafty website operators who are using sneaky code to turn website visitors into cryptocurrency miners without their consent.

The latter activity raises all sorts of interesting questions. Should in-browser mining be considered criminal activity? Is it simply the next step in the evolution of adware? Or could it be a legitimate way for developers to finance free software?

Is cryptocurrency mining malware the new adware?

 

[SHvFl]

I have no problem with sites that give you control if you want it on or off and how much cpu is uses while i get a benefit from their site if i mine. Would i even do it on my pc for any website? No but some people apparently would.

I have crypto but i don't mine.

 

[DJ Panda]

I have no problem with sites that give you control if you want it on or off and how much cpu is uses while i get a benefit from their site if i mine. Would i even do it on my pc for any website? No but some people apparently would.

I have crypto but i don't mine.

"i get a benefit from their site if i mine" I remember hearing certain things with benefits being talked about I can't seem to find that discussion anywhere on the fourm. I am curious maybe some examples that do the cpu usage and you get stuff for doing it. Maybe some examples of such?

As for cryptocurrency being the new adware I agree with such.

 

[Local Host]

We'll have Mine-Blockers on top of Ad-Blockers in no time, there's already filters available to block this malicious attempts.

 

[Arequire]

Personally I'd much rather see the internet littered with crypto-miners than exploit kit-laden ads.