Cryptojacking – When your computer mines cryptocurrency without your knowledge
In the past few months, we’ve seen a lot of news about cryptocurrency, including harried headlines about extreme fluctuations. All this can be attributed to an unending speculative bubble and possibly also the fear of government regulation. This partially explains why bitcoin’s value took such a spectacular plunge, falling from CA$25,000 to just over CA$10,000 between December 17 and today. Beyond the technical challenges that these headless currencies bring to the table, the fluctuations in exchange rate parity likely played a key role in the resurgence of attempted pirating, theft of digital wallets and personal data, and other fraudulent acts. If we’re to believe the predictions of certain industry leaders, more major heists could be coming. So far this year, we’ve already witnessed the record theft of $60 million in bitcoin from NiceHash, a violent attack on a British couple for their virtual wallet, and Coincheck reporting more stolen assets than MtGox did in 2014. Given that bitcoin could recover and hit $60,000 sometime this year, security has become a big issue for this type of investment and for cryptocoin mining as well. However, with a little common sense and caution, the risk is minimal. What is mining? Unlike the coins and banknotes we carry in our pockets, which are issued by central banks, cryptocurrencies are virtual. They can be transferred across the network and are secured by alphanumeric strings called “hash.” To create virtual currencies, protect them and keep them functional, the mining process uses software that connects computers to a mining pool, making it possible to leverage the power of several devices at the same time. The processors work 24/7 to keep the currency going. The transactions (blocks) are then correctly added and recorded on the blockchain, which is a public document that lists all transactions—and it’s also a real headache for financial institutions and governments. Miners contribute their computers’ processing power to the network and are paid in cryptocurrency. Day after day, these profits add to the amounts already in circulation. Mining is rarely done alone because it uses a lot of power and is not very profitable. Instead, pools or farms do most of the work. There is power in numbers, and in mining it increases both the processing power and speed (i.e. hash rate). More calculations = more blocks added = more profits. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ When hackers target miners Clearly, mining isn’t totally safe and provides an opportunity to attack honest individuals whose computers are connected. In fact, it is becoming increasingly common for the CPU (processer) of a computer to be “taken hostage” so that it can be used for mining, without the computer’s owner even knowing about it. For instance, this can be done with Coinhive. This simple script discreetly mines Monero (one of the many forms of crypocurrencies out there). You’d never even know it was there. If your computer lags x 1000 and your electricity bill skyrockets, you might inadvertently be making cryptocurrency. And the worst part is that you won’t see any of the bitcoins that your computer is generating. According to a handful of experts, we can expect this CPU-borrowing trend to increase in 2018. After Youtube, The Pirate Bay and several government sites, we could even see a broader range of websites and platforms used for cryptocurrency mining. Currently, none of the available browsers offers protection against this type of activity, but there are solutions like No Script extension for Chrome, Firefox and Opera. You can also turn to traditional ad blocking services like 1Blocker, uBlock Origin and Adblock Plus. These can help relieve stress, since they minimize the chances that someone will get rich off your back. Helpful definitions courtesy of bitcoin.org: Hash: One of the essential components of BTC security is the SHA 256 hash function. It’s a mathematical function that uses a compilation of data (words, numbers, characters) to create a unique output value called a “hash.” Block chain: The block chain is a public record of Bitcoin transactions in chronological order. The block chain is shared between all Bitcoin users. It is used to verify the permanence of Bitcoin transactions and to prevent double spending. Block: A block is a record in the block chain that contains and confirms many waiting transactions. Roughly every 10 minutes, on average, a new block including transactions is appended to the block chain through mining.New Videotron Customers – Get started in 5 easy steps!
Sign up to My Account or the Customer Centre If you’re subscribed to the Helix services, sign up for My Account. If you’re subscribed to Mobility, illico TV, Internet, or Home Phone services, sign up for the Customer Centre. Why is it useful? Because in My Account and the Customer Centre, you can manage your account securely and without waiting. Want to check your balance or track your mobile data usage? Check your services and equipment? Change your plan or TV channels? It’s all done online, in just a few clicks! Familiarize yourself with your invoice EThere’s a lot of information on your first invoice, so it’s not always easy to understand it at first glance. In order to be well informed and reassured, here is some valuable information that will enlighten you, depending on the services you subscribe to: First invoice for Helix services First invoice for Mobility, illico TV, Internet, or Home Phone services For a better understanding of your invoice, the article SOS: I received my first invoice also offers a helpful explanation. Install yourself or prepare for the technician’s visit Helix self-installation If you have chosen to self-install your Helix equipment, you will receive your equipment by mail and can install it at your own pace using our online detailed instructions and video tutorials. In case a pre-installation connection appointment is required, see how to prepare for it. Installation by a technician If the installation of your services is done by a Videotron technician, make sure that you are present at your home on the given date and see how you can prepare for this appointment: For Helix services For other Videotron services Manage your Wi-Fi like a pro Because we like to have control at our fingertips, Videotron’s mobile applications simplify the management of your Wi-Fi network. Helix Internet Service: The Helix Fi app allows you to manage all aspects of your network, users, and connected devices and objects from your mobile device, wherever you may be. Residential Internet service: The Videotron WiFi app lets you configure and customize your network, check its quality, and set up user access schedules from your mobile device. Explore your TV entertainment Are you a Helix TV subscriber? Take the time to familiarize yourself with your new feature: voice command. Get started by discovering some examples of commands that will make your TV respond instantly. Also explore the intuitive interface that brings together your live channels, On Demand content, and a host of your favourite apps. Whether you’re a Helix or illico TV subscriber, discover all the useful information you need to make the most of your entertainment. And remember that you can access your TV content on your mobile, tablet, or computer, wherever you are, thanks to the Helix TV app. We hope these tips get you off to a good start with Videotron! We aim to offer excellent service to all our customers, and we’re always willing to go the extra mile for you. Enjoy!Helix, what does it offer exactly?
Helix offers more than just entertainment. It adapts to your connected life to brighten it and make it easier in many ways, while allowing you to manage your services yourself. Discover everything Helix has to offer! Access tons of quality content with Helix Helix equipment is fully featured and opens up the world to you. Forget streaming devices like Apple TV or Chromecast, Helix already has many streaming content platforms! You can easily access all the content available on Club illico, Netflix or YouTube, in exceptional quality. Did you know that YouTube’s image quality on a mobile device typically ranges from 480p to 720p? Thanks to Helix, you can go up to 4K! Here’s how User-friendly applications Two applications linked to Helix services are the perfect daily companions: Helix and Helix Fi. These perfect service managers can be downloaded free from the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. The Helix app allows you to schedule your recordings remotely, read the TV guide, access parental control and on-demand content, or download your favourite series to watch while you’re away without using up your mobile data. Each member of your family can download to their own mobile device and watch whatever they want. Download the Helix app The Helix Fi app, on the other hand, allows you to easily and effectively manage all the devices and users connected to your home Wi-Fi network. For example, you can limit Internet access for a set period of time for each user profile. Helix Fi also configures your preferences and alerts for network usage. Download the Helix Fi app Make changes yourself easily Because everyone’s needs change based on their lives, Helix seamlessly adapts to all family or professional situations, whether that means increased content watching on mobile devices or a transition to teleworking. My Helix account lets you change your Internet service based on your usage and change your TV channels to match your mood. As changes to your Helix plan may lead to an increase or reduction of your monthly fees, this change is always clearly shown when you confirm your order. To change your services only, just follow these steps: Sign in to My Helix Account. In the Services and Equipment section, click on Change my services, you will then be able to change your Helix Internet or Helix TV plan. Confirm the changes to your plan and your new monthly fee on the Order Summary page by clicking on Place my order. A confirmation page will appear. Your new Helix Internet or Helix TV plan will be activated moments after your changes at the same time as your billing. Here’s how to re-select your channels if the changes made to your Helix TV plan requires it or wait five or six minutes for your Gateway’s automatic restart to finish if you changed your Helix Internet plan. Helix gives your tons of ways to entertain yourself and manage your services yourself. Don’t wait and explore all the ways to do so and finally enjoy your connected life. Get help with HelixStay connected
Here are a few helpful articles during the confinement period. Helix, what does it offer exactly? Helix offers more than just entertainment. It adapts to your connected life to brighten it and make it easier in many ways, while allowing you to manage your services yourself. Discover everything Helix has to offer!... Helix offers more Wi-Fi calling, the perfect solution for flawless reception quality At a time where we’re spending a lot of time at home or where teleworking is starting to become the norm for companies and slowly winning over every generation, having impeccable mobile phone reception everywhere in your house is a necessity... The ideal solution Advice and Tips for Avoiding Internet Fraud In today’s environment, when most of us spend many hours on the computer for telework or entertainment, it’s important to remember best practices to avoid fraud and traps online... Advice and Tips Did you know that you’re in full control of your Videotron services? In the middle of this confinement period, where you have to stay at home as much as possible and limit non-essential travel, you have the ability to change or pay for Videotron services by yourself... How to be in control Tips for a Safe Return : Are you coming home from Florida, a trip down south or from studying abroad? We are with you as you are subject to the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine... How to adapt returning home from abroad Keeping busy to keep seeing the bright side : The COVID-19 pandemic that’s keeping use home is no reason to go around in circles... How to entertain yourself at home Teleworking : During this isolation period, the majority of employees who can still enjoy working are doing it from home – this is our case in the Videotron Web department. Some of us are available part time due to our family responsibilities, while others are giving more than they’ve got... Make the most our of your workday from home. Rebooting your router When one or several of your devices is lagging, a simple device reboot, starting with your router, can help solve most problems... 5 solutions to enjoy the best home Internet speeds. Phishing attempts on the rise : The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security has unfortunately noticed an increase in phishing campaigns regarding the COVID-19 among businesses and individuals (our customers)... Vidéotron remains on alert and has taken action to stop these campaigns. Changing TV Channels 101 Say goodbye to the same old routine! Did you know that you can switch the channels in your cable TV plan whenever you’re craving something new?... Modify your channels directly on your TV in a few steps. Messaging apps: Messaging apps are incredibly popular. In fact, WhatsApp, Skype, Messenger and the like have been downloaded billions of times... What are the differences and which is best for you? Audio app : While the status of traditional on-air radio is increasingly precarious, each day brings new applications and other online platforms designed for sharing audio content... Everything you need to know to listen to what you want. Kids & Screens: That’s what most of us say when we don’t want our kids to use our mobile devices... A few pointers to ensure kids use screens responsibly. Mobile phone during the pandemic : We’re all confined during the COVID-19 pandemic, your already useful phone is proving to be a valuable tool to keep you informed and connected to your work, family and friends... Make time fly, without going over your data Videotron is committed to supporting you every day and simplifying your life during these unprecedented times. Learn more.Beware of Ransomware
By Marc-André Gagnon, information security specialist. How much would you be willing to pay to recover your term paper? Your family photos and videos? Your business documents? Those are the questions you’ll have to answer if you fall victim to ransomware, a type of computer virus that is striking more than ever before. Ransomware uses industry best practices to block access to your data by encrypting it. That means you can’t access your files without decrypting them—and you’ll need a decryption key to do it. The creator of the virus may (or may not) provide you with the decryption key in exchange for a ransom, which is usually paid using virtual money (i.e., Bitcoin). In dollars, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000 for a typical ransom. Ransoms charged to businesses are much higher, reaching $10,000 or more. You usually have 24 to 72 hours to pay, and the ransom amount may increase as time passes. It’s easy to see how this kind of extortion is very lucrative for fraudsters. Figure 1 - Ransom message used in the WannaCry attack Don’t let your guard down Like with any virus, there are lots of ways your computer can become infected with ransomware, including: Email containing an infected attachment or link Software downloaded from a non-official site (e.g., BitTorrent) Legitimate websites that are temporarily compromised may prompt you to download malware (e.g., a fake Adobe Flash update) Being on the same network as an infected computer, especially if your device doesn’t have the latest updates Malicious apps downloaded from Google Play Store or Apple App Store Windows and Android platforms are targeted most often, though there are some variants for Apple OSX and iOS. What does this mean for you? Remaining vigilant is essential, as is having an enabled, up-to-date virus checker. There are no more excuses, especially since Microsoft offers Windows Defender for free. What to do if you get infected Before you do anything else, disconnect your USB key, hard drive and network cables, and turn off your WiFi. The idea is to prevent the ransomware from encrypting the data on your synched drives (Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud, Dropbox, etc.), peripheral devices and other devices on your network. If you have a corporate workstation, or if you are simply at the office, let the tech support team know right away. Encrypting information takes time, so if you have just been infected, you may be able to limit the damage by shutting down your computer. Do not pay the ransom. There’s no guarantee that you will get your data back. Don’t forget that you’re dealing with a dishonest fraudster, so don’t expect great after-sales service! In fact, some types of ransomware don’t even allow decryption after payment. They’re bluffing! If you can, bring your computer to a repair centre to see if some files can be recovered. Some ransomware is worse than others. At the end of the day, the only 100% viable strategy is to reinstall and restore your backed-up data. You have backed up your files, haven’t you?Phishing attempts on the rise
The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security has unfortunately noticed an increase in phishing campaigns regarding the COVID-19 among businesses and individuals (our customers). The Canadian government remains on alert and has taken action to stop these campaigns. At Videotron, we are monitoring the situation closely and we remain vigilant to protect our employees and our customers. Here is a reminder of good practices to recognize phishing attacks: Do not respond to emails requesting urgent or immediate action and announcing an imminent consequence, do not follow the links provided, do not open an attachment and do not provide any personal information. Even if you know the company that purportedly sent the email, avoid clicking any links. Instead, enter the official Web address in your Web browser or check the hyperlink in the suspicious email by hovering over the link to verify the address. Check the quality of the writing: Phishing emails often contain spelling mistakes. Update your software, especially Adobe Flash Player, Adobe Reader, your antivirus software and operating system. Before making an online transaction, always check the reliability of the company’s website. Also, know that Videotron would never send its customers: A link to a website asking to give information such as customer number, password and other personal information, both by email and by text message; A redirect link to an external site (which is not a Videotron site). For further information, consult the page related to the subject on our site by clicking here. Thank you for your collaboration
