> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.digitalnations.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.digitalnations.xyz/web3-overview/challenges/hacks-and-scams/malware.md).

# Malware

Malware was responsible for over $3B of losses in 2021.

                                                                  **Malware Cost Users $3.2B in 2021**

<figure><img src="/files/t691CkAojfysH4U43mO6" alt=""><figcaption><p>Source: <a href="https://go.chainalysis.com/2022-Crypto-Crime-Report.html">Chainalysis 2022 Crypto Crime Report</a></p></figcaption></figure>

The most popular methods used by hackers include:

* **Cryptojacking:** The unauthorized use of someone else's computer to mine cryptocurrency.  Technically, cryptojackers are stealing computing power (and therefore electricity), but this can be given a numerical value.
* **Trojans:**  Viruses that look like legitimate programs but instead infiltrate a user’s computer to steal important data such as a person’s private keys
* **Clippers:**  Clipping is the process of inserting new text into a user’s clipboard.  Hackers use this to insert the address of their crypto wallets, so when a user goes to transfer funds it is redirected to the hacker (note:  always triple check the address you’re sending to!)&#x20;
* **Info Stealers:**  Collect saved files, autocomplete history and seed phrases from compromised computers.&#x20;