Duo arrested for installing crypto mining software on department store computers

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Here’s a funny one: Hot for Security reported that an unidentified Italian couple, let’s call them Bonnie and Clyde, were recently arrested for installing cryptocurrency mining software on display models of new computers gaming laptops at various retailers.

The scheme appears to have been fairly straightforward. Bonnie allegedly distracted employees “by asking for help starting a laptop she bought at the store” so that Clyde was free to use a USB drive to compromise target systems.

These systems would then devote their computing power to mining Bitcoin using NiceHash software, which Clyde could control using AnyDesk. This popular remote desktop app can be used on a variety of devices for free.

Bonnie and Clyde allegedly compromised “at least 16 computers in the branches of the El Corte Inglés department store and the electronics retailer Mediamarkt”. There was only one problem: Employees noticed that compromised systems were overheating.

Cryptocurrency mining can easily strain a system’s CPU and GPUs – which is probably why the couple installed NiceHash on more than a dozen computers they didn’t own. That way, they wouldn’t have to worry about power supply or wearing out their own equipment.

Using more power generates more heat, and it turns out that most laptops weren’t designed to melt their components, which means their fans have shifted into high gear. Someone noticed it, checked the security footage, and spotted Clyde’s activity.

Hot for Security reported that law enforcement discovered “several hard drives, a partially constructed PC, and a smartphone allegedly used to control the cryptomining operation of hacked computers” when they searched Bonnie and Clyde’s home. .

Both were charged with “computer systems hacking, fraud and damage”. (Which, frankly, is a happier ending than Bonnie and Clyde’s.)

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