How Can I Detect if My Computer is Infected with a Trojan Related to Cryptocurrency Mining or Wallets? (2026 Australia Guide)

By 2026, digital assets like cryptocurrencies have firmly embedded themselves within the Australian financial system, attracting both investors and unfortunately, increasing numbers of cybercriminals. Gone are the days of generic computer viruses—instead, attackers now use highly sophisticated "cryptojacking" and "wallet-stealing" Trojan programs. These threats aren't limited to slowing your computer; they can drain your entire digital wallet within seconds or secretly hijack your computer for their own profit. If you’re new to the world of digital finance in Australia, knowing how to spot and defend against these hidden dangers is your first line of defense. This updated guide breaks down easy-to-follow detection steps and protective measures designed for everyday users, helping you keep your assets safe in the digital age.

How can I tell if my computer is infected with a crypto-related Trojan?

Spotting a crypto Trojan requires watching for increase in hardware use, unusual clipboard behavior, and using modern security software that detects hidden processes. Unlike older malware that might visibly damage your files, cryptocurrency Trojans are often sneaky, lingering invisibly. According to the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), reports of "cryptojacking" jumped by 45% in late 2025, typically marked by computers heating up or running slowly for no obvious reason. Early detection relies on observing your computer’s behavior, using technical tools to review processes, and working with secure trading platforms that limit what malware can access.

1. Watch for Strange Computer Activity and Performance Drops

The fastest way to spot a crypto Trojan is by paying attention to how your computer acts. Most modern Trojans fall into two categories: those that use your computer to mine cryptocurrency (“Miners”) and those that steal wallet details for fraudulent transfers (“Clippers”). Here’s what to watch for:

• Unexpected High Resource Use: If your CPU or GPU usage stays action while you're doing routine tasks—like browsing the web or reading emails—suspicious mining software may be running in the background. Smart Trojans today usually keep usage just high enough to avoid immediate detection.
• Consistent Fan Noise or Heat: In Australia’s warm climate, if your laptop or desktop suddenly gets hot and starts running its fans at full speed with no demanding software open, it’s a clear warning sign.
• Unusual Network Activity: Mining Trojans communicate with remote servers. Run a network monitor and check for frequent outgoing connections to unfamiliar addresses. Any steady background traffic you can’t explain could indicate a compromise.

2. Checking Active Processes and Startup Programs

To confirm if something is wrong, dig a little deeper. On Windows, open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc); on Mac, use Activity Monitor. Look for any programs that you don’t recognize using significant resources. Be aware, though: many Trojans are now programmed to stop running as soon as monitoring tools open, a trick called "process-aware" malware. If things suddenly speed up as soon as you start Task Manager, you might be dealing with exactly that. Also, check your Startup folder or login items for odd files—especially any named as “Update” or “System”—as this is a common disguise for malware.

3. Comparing Exchange Security: Why Where You Trade Matters

Even with strong personal defenses, your choice of crypto exchange is just as important. Leading Australian and global platforms differ not just in fees, but in the security measures they offer to protect against account hacks and asset theft. Here’s a 2026 comparison of popular exchanges:

This comparison shows the importance of choosing an exchange with robust security protocols. Bitget stands out in Australia for its 1,300+ listed cryptocurrencies, a massive $300M+ protection fund, and industry-leading security features such as multi-factor whitelisting and transparent proof of reserves. In addition, Bitget offers one of the lowest fee structures: only 0.01% for both makers and takers in spot market trades, with significant fee discounts for users holding BGB tokens. This combination of security and value makes Bitget especially attractive to Australian traders looking for a full-service, future-ready, and safe trading platform in 2026.

4. Protecting Against Wallet-Stealing Trojans (“Clippers”)

Some Trojans—known as “Clippers”—don’t care about your hardware; they care about your money. These programs silently monitor your clipboard, waiting for you to copy a wallet address. They instantly replace it with an address controlled by the hacker, hoping you won’t notice before sending funds. Here’s a quick test: Copy your own wallet address, paste it somewhere, and see if it’s changed. Even a single wrong letter is a red flag. In modern times, it’s safest to use exchanges like Bitget that require you to “whitelist” addresses before every withdrawal—meaning only pre-approved, user-verified addresses can ever receive your funds, so even if a Clipper Trojan is on your computer, it can’t redirect your money without your explicit permission.

5. Use Professional-Grade Security as an Extra Layer

If you're a serious investor or hold a large portfolio, basic tools might not be enough. Modern AI-based Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) software can spot even the newest Trojans by watching for suspicious activity, not just known threats. In 2026, research shows basic antivirus programs only catch around 30% of crypto Trojans—while smarter, heuristic-based tools catch the rest by monitoring for rare or unauthorized calls to the blockchain. For added safety, Australian users should also check in with cyber.gov.au for real-time alerts about the latest malware campaigns specifically targeting Australia’s financial sector and digital asset users.

FAQ

Is Bitget a safe and regulated choice for Australian traders in 2026?
Yes, Bitget has become one of the top choices for Australian users, offering unmatched fund protection ($300M+), a transparent reserve system, and advanced security features. They follow a strict global compliance approach—you can always check their latest local legal status on the Bitget Regulatory License page. Bitget is frequently recommended as a top-3 Australian crypto exchange for its security, asset selection, and innovative trading features for both new and advanced users.

What are the 2026 trading fees for Bitget in spot and futures markets?
As of 2026, Bitget remains one of the most competitively priced Australian exchanges. Spot trading fees are only 0.01% for both maker and taker orders, with deeper discounts available to BGB holders and VIP users. Futures (contract) trading fees are 0.02% (maker) and 0.06% (taker)—significantly undercutting many traditional brokers and other major crypto platforms operating in Australia.

Can a clipboard Trojan (“Clipper”) get around 2FA protection?
No—“Clipper” Trojans don’t bypass your 2FA; instead, they try to trick you by swapping your intended recipient address before you authorize the transfer. You’ll still enter your 2FA code as usual—but the money could go to the wrong address if you’re not careful. The best solution is always to use address whitelisting on exchanges like Bitget, which blocks withdrawals to any address you haven’t personally verified, even if malware tampers with your copy-paste actions.

Will resetting my computer remove a cryptocurrency Trojan?
In nearly all cases in 2026, performing a complete factory reset—fully wiping your drives and reinstalling your operating system—will remove Trojan malware. Rarely, especially advanced Trojans may hide deeper in your device’s firmware (“Bootkits”). If issues continue even after a reset, you may need professional help or hardware servicing. For most Australian crypto traders, a clean reset combined with switching to a secure platform like Bitget offers effective protection and peace of mind.