Microsoft Edge Takes a Stand Against Cryptojacking Malware

What is Cryptojacking?

Cryptojacking refers to the unauthorized use of someone else’s device to mine cryptocurrencies. When this happens, the victims usually experience significantly diminished device performance, including increased battery drain and sluggish response times. Imagine your laptop running slower than a snail on a lazy Tuesday—yup, that’s cryptojacking for you!

Edge’s New Malware Blocking Feature

On February 10, a representative from Microsoft Edge announced that their latest browser update includes a new feature aimed at blocking Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs), which includes certain cryptojacking malware. This means that if you’re using Edge, you might just avoid those digital hijackers looking to exploit your hardware.

Is Microsoft Serious About This?

When questioned about their commitment to thwart cryptocurrency miners, Microsoft assured that addressing this issue would remain a focal point. It seems they’re no longer taking the “sit back and hope for the best” approach. Cryptojacking isn’t just a passing fad; it’s an escalating cybersecurity challenge that needs more than a simple shrug.

How Does Edge Protect You?

According to Amitai Rottem, a principal product manager at Microsoft, the new blocking feature will stop users from downloading PUAs. Eric Lawrence, who manages Edge’s web platform, reinforced that this feature could potentially put the brakes on unauthorized cryptocurrency mining software.

Additional Protections Already in Place

Microsoft Edge has had several security measures for a while, like the Tracking Protection feature. This function actively blocks known cryptocurrency mining software, asserting, “We won’t let you steal my devices, thank you very much!” If tracking protection is turned on, it’ll also prevent any sketchy business involving fingerprinting or cryptomining from interrupting your browsing experience.

Global Actions Against Cryptojacking

The rise of cryptojacking has prompted organizations worldwide to take action. For instance, in early January, Interpol teamed up with cybersecurity firm Trend Micro to combat cryptojacking threats linked to MikroTik routers in Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, French authorities took down a massive botnet in August 2019 responsible for hijacking unwitting users’ machines to mine Monero. Talk about a digital whack-a-mole!