CoinMiner: What it is, signs to spot, and how to remove cryptojacking malware

CoinMiner

What it is

CoinMiner is malware that hijacks your computer’s CPU/GPU to mine cryptocurrency for someone else. You get slowdowns, heat, and bigger power bills; they get the coins. See common signs and fixes in our CoinMiner guide

What you may notice

  • Fans roaring and laptop getting hot when you’re idle

  • Apps lagging; games drop frames; battery drains fast

  • Task Manager shows high CPU/GPU from unknown processes

  • Power bill spikes; browser tabs that pin CPU

How it gets in

  • Cracked “free” software and fake updates

  • Phishing attachments or droppers from other malware

  • Rogue browser extensions or scripts that run mining code in tabs

Remove it now (quick steps)

  1. Disconnect from the internet.

  2. Run a full anti-malware scan and reboot.

  3. In Task Scheduler/Startup, remove unknown items; uninstall shady extensions.

  4. Update OS, drivers, and browser; clear browser cache and site data.

Prevent it

  • Install software only from official sources; avoid cracks.

  • Keep OS, browsers, and security tools updated.

  • Use real-time protection and consider blocking known mining scripts.

  • Watch Task Manager: if idle usage isn’t idle, investigate.

    Glossary (A–Z)

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