[2016-8-13]New Linux Malware Installs Bitcoin Mining Software on Infected Device

[hendra147]

Dr. Web states that:

“This malware possesses the ability to collect information about an infected computer and transfer it to the C&C server, download and launch a crypto-currency mining utility, and attack other computers on the network to install its own copy on them.”

The main purpose of this malware is to convert computers that use Linux into crypto-currency generators. It basically performs three key functions;

* It gains information about an infected computer and sends it to the C&C server (command and control)

* It downloads and launches a crypto-currency mining program after receiving a configuration file from the C&C server

* Searches for other computers on the network to install another copy of the cryptocurrency miner program and looks for Monero, a type of cryptocurrency
https://www.hackread.com/linux-malware-bitcoin-mining-software/

[Kaneki]

malware comes in many shapes and sizes, but its objective is always the same: to make as much money as possible for the attacker.

[BTCdoaA]

I though Linux is virus\Malware free operating system not like windows unless you compile infect shell commands.really it is a bad news for me

[Kprawn]

I though Linux is virus\Malware free operating system not like windows unless you compile infect shell commands.really it is a bad news for me

I thought so too, based on the bragging going on in the Linux forums. Nothing stops people from running legitimate code and using it for something sinister like this. A while ago some guys distributed

mining software with pirated games and they mined Alt coins. Linux are not completely FREE of viruses, and here is some proof --> https://www.neowin.net/news/a-history-of-viruses-on-linux

So yes... It's possible, but more rare than many other OS.. eg. Windows.