Malware · high

How to fixCRYPTOMINER-HIGH-CPU

Cryptominer malware (high CPU/GPU usage)

What this error means

Cryptominer malware (high CPU/GPU usage) is a high-severity malware/security issue. A cryptocurrency mining malware is silently consuming CPU and GPU resources. Symptoms include unexplained 100% CPU or GPU utilization, elevated electricity consumption, fan noise during idle periods, and system slowdowns. Miners often disguise themselves as system processes or inject into legitimate processes like svchost.exe or browser extensions. It's also often linked to trojanized software download. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Run full scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

Run full scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Check Task Manager for unknown high-CPU processes

Check Task Manager for unknown high-CPU processes.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Remove suspicious browser extensions

Remove suspicious browser extensions.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Malicious browser extension installing miner
  • Trojanized software download
  • Drive-by mining script via compromised website