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
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Fans roaring and laptop getting hot when you’re idle
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Apps lagging; games drop frames; battery drains fast
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Task Manager shows high CPU/GPU from unknown processes
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Power bill spikes; browser tabs that pin CPU
How it gets in
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Cracked “free” software and fake updates
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Phishing attachments or droppers from other malware
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Rogue browser extensions or scripts that run mining code in tabs
Remove it now (quick steps)
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Disconnect from the internet.
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Run a full anti-malware scan and reboot.
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In Task Scheduler/Startup, remove unknown items; uninstall shady extensions.
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Update OS, drivers, and browser; clear browser cache and site data.
Prevent it
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Install software only from official sources; avoid cracks.
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Keep OS, browsers, and security tools updated.
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Use real-time protection and consider blocking known mining scripts.
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Watch Task Manager: if idle usage isn’t idle, investigate.