How to Know When You're Infected: A Guide to Removing and Detecting Crypto Malware

Crypto mining malware, often called "cryptojacking" malware, is one of the sneakiest digital threats today. In 2025, this malware virus will become smarter, harder to detect, and more energy-hungry than ever. 

It drains your system’s performance, spikes your power consumption, and quietly funnels profits to cybercriminals—all while you’re browsing the web or working on spreadsheets.

So how can you know if you’ve been infected? And more importantly, how to remove this malware virus effectively before it causes permanent damage? In this article, we’ll unpack what crypto malware is, how it infiltrates your devices, how to detect it early, and the most reliable ways to clean your system and regain control.

What Is Crypto Malware?

At its core, crypto mining is the process of verifying cryptocurrency transactions on the blockchain in exchange for rewards. This task requires significant computing power, and that’s where crypto mining malware comes in.

Crypto mining malware is a type of malicious software that hijacks your computer or smartphone to perform these mining operations—without your knowledge or consent. 

It silently taps into your CPU or GPU, using up your device’s energy and power to generate cryptocurrency for the hacker. It’s not only sneaky, but it also degrades your system’s performance and shortens its lifespan.

Unlike regular crypto miners who use their own machines, crypto malware exploits yours, and you foot the bill.

Read also: Protect Your Computer: How to Detect and Remove Crypto Mining Malware

How Crypto Malware Operates

Crypto malware doesn’t just appear out of thin air. It usually finds its way into your system through deception. Here's how it works:

1. Phishing Attacks

Fake emails pretending to be from trusted services trick users into clicking malicious links or downloading infected files. One click, and the malware quietly installs itself.

2. Infected Software or Files

Sometimes the malware is bundled with cracked software, free tools, or media downloads from sketchy websites. You think you’re downloading a free PDF reader—but you’re actually installing a hidden miner.

3. Social Engineering

Hackers impersonate customer support agents or send fake system update alerts, convincing users to install malware willingly.

4. Web-Based Scripts

Browser-based crypto miners run JavaScript code the moment you open certain websites—especially those riddled with pop-ups or pirated content. These scripts are mine as long as you stay on the page.

Once inside, the malware starts mining crypto using your hardware, often staying below the radar by only activating when the system is idle. The mined coins are automatically sent to the attacker’s crypto wallet—while your computer overheats and slows to a crawl.

Types and Examples of Crypto Mining Malware

Crypto mining malware isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here are the most common types:

Browser-Based Miners

These scripts load inside your browser without needing to install anything. For example, the now-defunct CoinHive secretly mined Monero from users who visited infected websites.

Executable Miners

These malware types masquerade as system files—like coinminer.exe or cryptojack.js. Once installed, they run in the background every time you turn on your device.

Fileless Malware

These are harder to detect because they live in your system’s memory rather than being stored as files. They often arrive via phishing links or malicious websites.

Worms and Trojans

Some malware spreads across a network, infecting multiple devices to build a botnet used for mining on a larger scale.

How to Detect Crypto Mining Malware

Crypto malware hides in plain sight, but there are warning signs to look out for:

Unusual CPU or GPU Usage

Check your Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc on Windows) or Activity Monitor on Mac. If your usage stays high (80–100%) even when idle, it’s suspicious.

Overheating and Loud Fans

If your device is hot to the touch or your fans are constantly running, it may be working harder than it should—possibly mining crypto in the background.

Lagging and Slow Performance

A noticeable dip in speed, longer load times, and delayed responses can indicate that malware is hogging system resources.

Strange Pop-Ups or Redirects

Random ads or frequent redirects to sketchy websites are a classic sign of browser-based mining scripts.

Increased Electricity Bills

Crypto mining consumes power. If your electricity usage is climbing without explanation, malware could be to blame.

Read also: How to Remove Crypto Miner Malware and Understand Its Impact

How to Remove Crypto Mining Malware

Now comes the most important part—cleaning your system. Here’s a step-by-step guide to remove this malware virus:

1. Run Antivirus and Quarantine Infected Files

• Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware tool.
• Quarantine and delete files like coinminer.exe or other unknown programs.

2. Update and Scan Regularly

• Make sure your antivirus definitions are current.
• Run a full system scan to catch hidden or dormant malware.

3. Clear Browser Data

• Go to your browser settings.
• Clear cookies, cached files, and site data (select “All Time” for best results).

4. Reset Browser Settings

• If the problem persists, reset your browser to its default state.
• This will remove any malicious extensions or hidden scripts.

5. Disconnect from the Internet

• Go offline during the cleanup to prevent the malware from communicating with its server.

6. Monitor CPU Usage Again

• After cleanup, check your CPU usage. If it’s still abnormally high, you may need professional help.

7. System Restore (Last Resort)

• Restore your system to a previous state before the infection.
• Be cautious: this may delete files or software installed after that date.

Read also: Crypto Market Analysis: How US-China Trade War Is Hitting Crypto?

Conclusion

Crypto mining malware is a modern-day parasite—quiet, damaging, and expensive. It’s not just about a slow laptop or a noisy fan; it’s about your digital security and financial well-being.

The good news? With the right knowledge, tools, and habits, you can protect yourself. Be alert, watch your system's behavior, and act fast if something feels off. Stay updated, avoid suspicious downloads, and always use security software.

FAQ

Q: What is a malware virus and how does it affect my computer?
A malware virus is malicious software designed to harm your system. Crypto malware specifically uses your CPU/GPU to mine cryptocurrency, slowing your computer and increasing energy usage.

Q: How can I tell if my computer has crypto mining malware?
Look for signs like high CPU usage, overheating, laggy performance, unexpected pop-ups, or a rise in electricity bills.

Q: How to remove crypto mining malware from my computer?
Use antivirus software, clear your browser cache, reset browser settings, and monitor CPU usage. If needed, perform a system restore or seek expert help.

Q: Can antivirus software detect all types of crypto malware?
Most reputable antivirus tools can detect many types of malware, but advanced or fileless variants may evade detection. Keep your software updated for better protection.

Q: Is crypto mining malware dangerous?
Yes. Beyond slowing down your device, it can lead to overheating, hardware damage, and data vulnerabilities.