The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Proxyjacking is the covert use of a compromised device’s internet connection as a proxy for someone else’s traffic. Attackers can route requests through a server, router, IoT device or application, then earn money through bandwidth-sharing services or proxy-enabled software. The device owner may notice little slowdown or CPU activity, while websites see the victim’s IP address and may associate it with the attacker’s activity.
Recent investigations show two recurring patterns: attackers breaking into exposed systems and installing proxy software, and apparently legitimate applications or SDKs enrolling users’ devices in bandwidth-sharing networks. Prompt patching, replacing unsupported routers, disabling remote administration and monitoring outbound traffic are the most important defenses.
How proxyjacking works
A residential proxy makes a request appear to come from a household or small-business connection rather than the person who initiated it. The FBI’s March 12, 2026 public service announcement explains that, after an internet-connected device is compromised, threat actors can use its IP address to mask illegal activity, “making the consumer appear responsible.”
In proxyjacking, the attacker usually wants bandwidth and an IP address, not the device’s processor. A proxy client runs in the background, accepts or forwards requests, and reports usage to an operator or bandwidth-sharing service. Akamai’s Security Intelligence Response Team said this model can monetize unused bandwidth with only a fraction of the resource load required for cryptomining, reducing the chance that a user will notice.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What the documented campaigns did
Akamai’s 2023 SSH and container campaign
On June 29, 2023, Akamai reported attackers targeting vulnerable SSH servers. The intruders executed encoded Bash scripts, downloaded Docker images, enrolled compromised hosts with Peer2Profit or Honeygain, and killed competing proxy containers. A compromised web server supplied dependencies and helped obscure the infrastructure.
Akamai observed public Docker images for those services with more than 1 million downloads and identified a proxy list containing over 16,500 open proxies. Those figures describe the infrastructure examined in that investigation, not the worldwide number of infected devices or users.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Unit 42’s 2025 GeoServer campaign
Palo Alto Networks Unit 42 reported activity beginning in early March 2025 that exploited GeoServer CVE-2024-36401, a critical remote-code-execution flaw with a CVSS score of 9.8. The campaign delivered modified executables, SDKs and a bandwidth-sharing application. Unit 42 characterized the operation as resource-light and focused on stealthy persistence.
The two investigations involve different entry points and malware infrastructure. Their indicators should not be treated as universal signatures; an investigation must account for the device, software versions and network involved.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How a device gets recruited
The FBI identifies several routes by which proxy code reaches a victim:
- Background SDK partnerships: an application incorporates code that shares the user’s connection, sometimes disclosed only in lengthy terms.
- Free VPNs: a provider may bury proxy participation or resale of bandwidth in its terms.
- Compromised IoT equipment: routers, streaming boxes, picture frames and other internet-connected devices can be enrolled after exploitation.
- Malware bundles: pirated or unofficial software and media can carry a proxy client.
- Passive-income applications: an app promises payment for sharing bandwidth, but may hide who controls the traffic or how the software persists.
The FBI’s May 7, 2025 router alert warns that end-of-life models may no longer receive security fixes. TheMoon malware variants can install proxies after exploiting vulnerable routers, particularly when remote administration is enabled.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Why proxyjacking is dangerous
Traffic routed through a victim’s address can support:
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →- Command-and-control obfuscation
- Phishing and identity theft
- Spam and fake-account creation
- Data exfiltration
- Brute-force attacks and account takeover
- Bypassing regional restrictions
- Illicit-marketplace access and illegal purchases
For the victim, the consequences can include slower or capped connectivity, unexpected bandwidth consumption, abuse complaints, blocked services and damage to the reputation of the IP address. A website or provider may initially see only the household or business address, so an abuse report or account challenge can be the first visible sign. Proxyjacking may also create modest CPU use while generating substantial outbound network activity, which makes it harder to spot than compute-heavy cryptomining.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Proxyjacking versus cryptojacking
| Characteristic | Proxyjacking | Cryptojacking |
|---|---|---|
| Monetized resource | Internet bandwidth and the device’s IP address | CPU or GPU computation |
| Typical visibility | Often lower CPU impact; network activity may be the main clue | High processor or graphics utilization, heat and power use are common clues |
| Access or payload | Proxy enrollment through a service, SDK, application or proxy container | Mining software or a mining script |
| Primary victim impact | Bandwidth degradation, IP-reputation problems and possible association with other people’s abuse | Higher electricity use, heat, hardware wear and reduced system performance |
| Best first signal to examine | Outbound traffic, unexpected containers and persistent proxy processes | CPU/GPU utilization, temperature, power consumption and mining processes |
How to check whether your connection is being used
- Review network usage. Look for unexplained outbound bandwidth spikes, persistent connections or traffic at times when the network is idle. A normal-looking CPU graph does not rule out proxyjacking.
- Inspect servers and containers. On systems that use Docker, list running containers and check for unfamiliar images, proxy-related names or containers that return after removal. Review process lists, startup jobs and scheduled tasks for unexpected entries.
- Check exposed services. Audit internet-facing SSH, GeoServer, router administration panels and other exposed applications for missing patches, weak credentials or versions that have reached end of support.
- Review the router. Check administrator accounts, DNS settings, firmware version, remote-management status and connected-device lists. Unexplained heat, connectivity changes or altered settings are useful warning signs, although none proves compromise by itself.
- Investigate reputation warnings. An abuse notice, blocked IP address or sudden account challenge can indicate that traffic from the connection was attributed to you. Investigate both the router and every host behind it.
How to prevent proxyjacking
- Replace an end-of-life router with a currently supported model and install its latest firmware.
- Disable remote administration unless it is required; restrict management to a trusted local network or secure administrative path.
- Patch operating systems, applications, firmware, firewalls and known-exploited internet-facing vulnerabilities promptly.
- Use long, unique administrator passwords and prevent unauthorized devices from joining business or home networks.
- Install applications only from official stores or reputable publishers. Avoid pirated content and dubious free VPNs.
- Segment guest, IoT and work devices, apply least-privilege firewall rules and block known residential-proxy addresses where that is appropriate for your environment.
- For servers, limit SSH exposure, use key-based authentication where practical, remove unused services and monitor container creation and outbound connections.
What to do if compromise is suspected
- Isolate the device. Disconnect the suspected host or router from the network, while preserving relevant logs and timestamps if an investigation or abuse response may be needed.
- Secure accounts. From a clean device, change router, server and application credentials; rotate keys and tokens; and contact providers for accounts that may have been accessed.
- Update or replace. Apply current firmware and patches. Replace unsupported routers or devices rather than relying on a permanent workaround.
- Remove persistence. Delete unauthorized containers, applications, scheduled tasks and startup entries, then run reputable antivirus or endpoint security tools.
- Reinstall when necessary. If you cannot establish that cleanup removed the attacker, reinstall the operating system or reset the device using trusted firmware and restore only verified data.
- Report the incident. Report suspected victimization to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), retain provider notices and logs, and tell affected account providers what happened.
Limits of the available evidence
Akamai’s findings concern a campaign investigated in 2023, while Unit 42’s report concerns activity beginning in 2025. Proxy-service policies, malware infrastructure and router support status can change. There is no authoritative global victim-count or prevalence figure established here, so the campaign numbers should not be used to estimate how common proxyjacking is overall.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
