General
Beginner
Updated 1/15/2025
What is
Malware?
Malicious software that can steal crypto by replacing wallet addresses, logging keystrokes, or compromising seed phrases. Always verify downloads from official sources.
Malware (malicious software) in the cryptocurrency context includes programs designed to steal funds or credentials. Common types include clipboard hijackers (replacing copied wallet addresses with attacker addresses), keyloggers (capturing seed phrases and passwords), fake wallet apps, and cryptojacking software (using your computer to mine for attackers). Protecting against malware is crucial for crypto security - always download wallets from official sources, verify checksums, use hardware wallets for large holdings, and never enter seed phrases on websites.
Key Points
- Clipboard hijackers replace copied addresses
- Keyloggers capture seed phrases and passwords
- Fake wallet apps steal funds directly
- Always download from official sources
- Verify software checksums when possible
- Hardware wallets protect against most malware
Use Cases
1
Understanding crypto security threats
2
Protecting wallet credentials
3
Verifying software authenticity
4
Choosing security practices
Technical Details
Crypto-targeting malware often operates by: 1) Monitoring clipboard for wallet address patterns and replacing them, 2) Keylogging to capture seed phrases during wallet setup, 3) Screen capture during sensitive operations, 4) Browser extensions that modify transaction details, 5) Fake wallet software that sends funds to attackers. Defense includes using hardware wallets, verifying addresses on device screens, and running security software.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about Malware
Common questions about this topic
How to get started with Ergo?
Start by getting a wallet (Nautilus for browser, Terminus for mobile). Back up your seed phrase securely offline. Get some ERG from an exchange (Gate.io, KuCoin) or DEX (Spectrum). Make a test transaction. Then explore: try DeFi on Spectrum, check out NFTs, or dive into the technology if you're a builder.
How-to
Getting Started
Is Ergo a good investment?
This is not financial advice. Ergo has strong fundamentals: fair launch (no VC dump risk), innovative technology (eUTXO, Sigma Protocols, NiPoPoWs), active development, and a cypherpunk ethos. It's a smaller market cap project with higher risk/reward than established chains. Research thoroughly, understand the technology, and never invest more than you can afford to lose.
Comparison
Getting Started
What is the best wallet for Ergo?
Nautilus is the most popular Ergo wallet - a browser extension supporting all Ergo features including tokens, NFTs, and dApp connections. For mobile, use Terminus. For maximum security, pair Nautilus with a Ledger hardware wallet. Always backup your seed phrase offline.
Explainer
Getting Started
What is ErgoScript and how does it work?
ErgoScript is Ergo's smart contract language - a Scala-based, functional language that compiles to ErgoTree for on-chain execution. Unlike Solidity, ErgoScript is not Turing-complete by design, ensuring predictable execution costs and easier formal verification. It's powerful enough for complex DeFi yet safe enough to audit.
Explainer
Technology