Antivirus software frequently flags cryptomining applications as malware due to their potential for resource exploitation and unauthorized use. Such software leverages a computer’s processing power to generate cryptocurrency, often without the user’s explicit consent. An example of this would be a program secretly installed on a system that utilizes the CPU and GPU to mine cryptocurrency in the background, degrading system performance and potentially increasing electricity consumption.
The detection of cryptomining applications as malicious stems from the fact that their presence can severely impact system performance, lead to increased operational costs (through higher electricity bills), and pose security risks. Historically, some websites have even employed scripts to mine cryptocurrency through visitors’ web browsers without their knowledge, a practice known as “cryptojacking.” This unethical exploitation of resources is a primary reason for the negative classification.
