Hello! When surfing the Internet, we can encounter all kinds of security threats. Some of them can steal passwords and personal data. On the other hand, others affect the operation of the network, sometimes encrypt files and ask for money in return. In fact, all of this can impact both home users and businesses and organizations. In this post we are going to talk about what Cryware is all about. Specifically, how it impacts us and how to avoid it.
What is cryware?
Cryware is directly related to cryptocurrencies. Indeed, digital currencies are widely used today as an investment method. However, they are also used to make online purchases. But the truth is that they are targeted by hackers to launch a wide variety of attacks and steal them.
We can say that a Cryware is an information thief related to cryptocurrencies. In fact, they are responsible for collecting user data, such as credentials and passwords. Consequently, they seek to break into accounts or intercept a payment we make. Usually, these attacks result in the theft of all types of cryptocurrencies or fraudulent transfers.
How it works
These types of attacks have grown considerably recently. Especially at the same pace as the use of cryptocurrencies. Hackers know that they have a great opportunity because there are many careless users who buy and sell cryptocurrencies on the Internet. In addition, they often fail to take appropriate measures.
This type of attack has grown considerably recently. We could say that at the same rate as the use of cryptocurrencies. Hackers know that they have a great opportunity, as there are many careless users who buy and sell cryptocurrencies on the Internet. And that, in addition, in many occasions they do not take the appropriate measures. This is an irreversible attack. That is, once the cryptocurrencies have been stolen, there is no way to reverse the situation. Those digital currencies are lost to us, as they are automatic transactions. In effect, there is no way of knowing where it is going or who is going to receive them.
But Cryware is not just about stealing cryptocurrencies. In fact, they can also use your system resources to mine digital currencies without you even realizing it. This is what is also known as cryptocurrency miners. They will use the power of a computer, for example, to mine cryptocurrencies in a hidden way.
How they can attack you
You may wonder how they can attack you with this type of threat. In fact, they can use different methods to do so. Basically, they will act as with other similar security threats that you can find on the web. The goal will be to control your cryptocurrencies, or even go as far as to mine them.
A very common technique is to use keyloggers. That is, a type of malware that is responsible for collecting the keystrokes that we put on the computer or cell phone. This also includes passwords. Consequently, they will find out what is the key to access an account where we store cryptocurrencies. Or even to a program from which we send or receive cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoins, Ethereums or whatever.
They can also use the impersonation technique. That is, they will create a web page identical to the legitimate one. However, in reality it is a scam. This is a phishing attack, like many others on the Web. All you have to do is log on to these sites and enter your data. As a result, they will end up on a server controlled by hackers.
Another type of strategy they use is to sneak in malicious software as if it were an official program. For example, a supposed application for sending and receiving cryptocurrencies that pretends to belong to a popular service. But in reality it has nothing to do with it.
What to do to avoid it
Therefore, as you have seen, Cryware is a threat that will put your cryptocurrencies at risk. It can attack you in different ways. Therefore, it is essential to be protected and not to make mistakes. We are going to give a series of recommendations to avoid problems and always maintain security.
Common sense
The first and most important thing is not to make mistakes. Common sense is essential to be protected against scams and threats of all kinds. Usually, hackers will need us to do something wrong. For example, such as clicking on a fake link, downloading something malicious, etc. If you avoid making common mistakes of this type, you stand a good chance of being protected from Cryware. As well as other similar threats that can put your cryptocurrencies or systems in general at risk.
Use security software
Another important point is to have a good antivirus installed. Having security applications will help us to detect threats that may reach our computers. It can warn us if accidentally we have downloaded a file that can be a Cryware or any other variety of malware. You will find many programs available that can help you. Some examples are Windows Defender, Bitdefender, or Avast. You will certainly have both free and paid options. However, you must choose one that works well, with good reviews on the Internet.
Install official software
Of course, one thing you can’t miss is to install the programs from official sources. You can go directly to the website of that application and download it from there. You can also use reliable application stores, such as Google Play. This way, you will avoid installing software that may have been modified maliciously.
Use physical wallets
You can also consider the option of having physical wallets. Basically, it is a physical device where you will store your cryptocurrencies. This way you will have them protected at all times. The only way you will have problems is if you lose that device or for some reason it breaks down.
Unlike having cryptocurrencies in online applications, in this case they will not be so exposed to possible vulnerabilities. Especially to intruders who can steal your passwords and enter your accounts.
Keeping everything up to date
To achieve good security, another important factor is to always keep everything updated. This should be applied to the cryptocurrency programs you use, as well as to the browser or operating system. In short, any software that can be exploited by an attacker. In the case of Windows, to update it you have to go to Start, go to Settings and access Windows Update. There you will see possible pending updates, and they will be installed automatically. This is something that you should check periodically to always have the latest versions.
In short, as you have seen, Cryware is a security problem that affects cryptocurrencies. They can steal from you in different ways, as well as even use your devices to mine cryptocurrencies. However, you can consider the tips we have given to improve security and protection. Bye!
