Cryptojacking Craze: 15 Arrested for Cryptocurrency Mining in Internet Cafes

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Cryptojacking Scandal Unveiled

In the bustling city of Henyang, China, a surprising scandal emerged as authorities arrested fifteen individuals for allegedly corrupting an internet café administrator to engage in cryptojacking. Cryptojacking, the notorious practice of hijacking a computer’s processing power to mine cryptocurrency without consent, was surprisingly lucrative for these suspects, as reported by local crypto news source 8BTC on September 3.

A Profitable Crime

In an audacious four-month operation, the group managed to harvest cryptocurrency valued at over a staggering one hundred million yuan (approximately $14 million). Local math lovers are shaking their heads at the numbers, but this revelation has raised eyebrows more than a bad stand-up comedy act.

The Man Behind the Curtain

The preliminary investigation unveiled that the malware, which facilitated these illicit mining activities, was allegedly crafted by a network technology company based in Zhengzhou, helmed by an individual whose last name is Zhang. Speculation suggests that Zhang personally engaged in a little bribery bingo, convincing internet café admins to install his cryptojacking software. Because why not add a sprinkle of bribery to your business model, right?

Internet Cafés Under Fire

According to reports, over 9,000 internet café administrators were caught up in this sprawling investigation. Who would have thought a cozy spot for gamers and caffeine addicts could become a part of such a financial frenzy? With many locations running malware likened to a digital cockroach infestation, it seems the local police had their work cut out for them.

Not the First Rodeo

This incident isn’t an isolated case. Earlier in July, authorities apprehended 22 suspects involved in illegal cryptocurrency mining, which reportedly siphoned electricity worth around $3 million. It’s as if everyone’s chasing that digital gold like kids after a piñata full of candy.

Rising Concerns in Cybersecurity

In light of these events, experts are sounding the alarm bells. According to a threat report by cybersecurity mastermind, McAfee Labs, there was a 29% spike in cryptojacking and ransomware tactics during the first quarter of 2019. If you thought your computer problems were just your Wi-Fi being cranky, think again. Cyber threats are evolving faster than a cat meme goes viral!

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