An investigation into the current state of web based cryptominers and cryptojacking
- Authors: Len, Robert
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Cryptocurrencies , Malware (Computer software) , Computer networks -- Security measures , Computer networks -- Monitoring , Cryptomining , Coinhive , Cryptojacking
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178248 , vital:42924
- Description: The aim of this research was to conduct a review of the current state and extent of surreptitious crypto mining software and its prevalence as a means for income generation. Income is generated through the use of a viewer's browser to execute custom JavaScript code to mine cryptocurrencies such as Monero and Bitcoin. The research aimed to measure the prevalence of illicit mining scripts being utilised for “in-browser" cryptojacking while further analysing the ecosystems that support the cryptomining environment. The extent of the research covers aspects such as the content (or type) of the sites hosting malicious “in-browser" cryptomining software as well as the occurrences of currencies utilised in the cryptographic mining and the analysis of cryptographic mining code samples. This research aims to compare the results of previous work with the current state of affairs since the closure of Coinhive in March 2018. Coinhive were at the time the market leader in such web based mining services. Beyond the analysis of the prevalence of cryptomining on the web today, research into the methodologies and techniques used to detect and counteract cryptomining are also conducted. This includes the most recent developments in malicious JavaScript de-obfuscation as well as cryptomining signature creation and detection. Methodologies for heuristic JavaScript behaviour identification and subsequent identification of potential malicious out-liars are also included within the research of the countermeasure analysis. The research revealed that although no longer functional, Coinhive remained as the most prevalent script being used for “in-browser" cryptomining services. While remaining the most prevalent, there was however a significant decline in overall occurrences compared to when coinhive.com was operational. Analysis of the ecosystem hosting \in-browser" mining websites was found to be distributed both geographically as well as in terms of domain categorisations. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Computer Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Len, Robert
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Cryptocurrencies , Malware (Computer software) , Computer networks -- Security measures , Computer networks -- Monitoring , Cryptomining , Coinhive , Cryptojacking
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178248 , vital:42924
- Description: The aim of this research was to conduct a review of the current state and extent of surreptitious crypto mining software and its prevalence as a means for income generation. Income is generated through the use of a viewer's browser to execute custom JavaScript code to mine cryptocurrencies such as Monero and Bitcoin. The research aimed to measure the prevalence of illicit mining scripts being utilised for “in-browser" cryptojacking while further analysing the ecosystems that support the cryptomining environment. The extent of the research covers aspects such as the content (or type) of the sites hosting malicious “in-browser" cryptomining software as well as the occurrences of currencies utilised in the cryptographic mining and the analysis of cryptographic mining code samples. This research aims to compare the results of previous work with the current state of affairs since the closure of Coinhive in March 2018. Coinhive were at the time the market leader in such web based mining services. Beyond the analysis of the prevalence of cryptomining on the web today, research into the methodologies and techniques used to detect and counteract cryptomining are also conducted. This includes the most recent developments in malicious JavaScript de-obfuscation as well as cryptomining signature creation and detection. Methodologies for heuristic JavaScript behaviour identification and subsequent identification of potential malicious out-liars are also included within the research of the countermeasure analysis. The research revealed that although no longer functional, Coinhive remained as the most prevalent script being used for “in-browser" cryptomining services. While remaining the most prevalent, there was however a significant decline in overall occurrences compared to when coinhive.com was operational. Analysis of the ecosystem hosting \in-browser" mining websites was found to be distributed both geographically as well as in terms of domain categorisations. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Computer Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Perceptions of the role of Lantana camara on human well-being and rural livelihoods in Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, South Africa
- Authors: Mhlongo, Edward Swazi
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Lantana camara -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , Introduced organisms -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , Biological invasions -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , Plant invasions -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , Lantana camara -- Control -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , South Africa -- Rural conditions , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177952 , vital:42893
- Description: In the past, social aspects on biological invasions were less documented, this hindered the development of sound and effective management of Invasive Alien Species (IAS). However, there has been a shift in trends with more studies on biological invasions integrating local knowledge together with ecological studies to develop effective management interventions. Invasive Alien Species are widespread throughout Southern Africa and are usually prevalent in the rural areas. Limpopo province consists of large rural areas where people depend on natural resources, wild and exotic species for their livelihoods. Lantana camara is one of the major invaders that is problematic worldwide having detrimental impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and economies. This study assessed the perceptions of the role of L. camara on the well-being and rural livelihoods of local communities in the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve using household surveys. A total of 300 surveys were administered in six villages. The study further used a two-pronged approach to examine invasion extent and management options. The two-pronged approach included (i) detailed vegetation surveys in 50 household yards within each village, and (ii) focus group to solicit local knowledge of invasion extent and managing L. camara by the rural communities. The results of the study showed that almost all the respondents knew L. camara and could describe it. Most of the respondents were of the view that L. camara had no negative impacts on their livelihoods. Other respondents stated costs associated with L. camara were more than benefits and wanted a reduction in L. camara densities in the area. Most respondents wanted more government intervention to help in managing L. camara, this is because of the perceived future impacts of L. camara. Vegetation survey results showed no significant difference in L. camara abundances and plant heights among the six study villages. The average number of L. camara counted per household yard in all villages was (2.41 ± 0.20) plants, with average plant basal diameter of (0.94 ± 0.02 cm). There were significant differences in canopy width of L. camara among the six study villages. Plant basal diameter was high in Tshakhuma (1.05 ± 0.04 m) and Duthuni (1.00 ± 0.04 m) villages, and low in Ha Mutsha village (0.82 ± 0.03 m). Lantana camara canopy width at household level across all villages averaged 1.34 ± 0.03 m. Canopy cover was high in Tshakhuma village (1.70 ± 0.09 m) and low at Ha Mutsha village (1.03 ± 0.03 m). In all six village focus group discussions, it was noted that mechanical clearing of L. camara was the most used method, but they reported minimum help from the government particularly Working for Water (WfW). The study concludes that L. camara has no substantial adverse impacts to most of the respondents. The study further noted that L. camara is dominant in most household yards ii and that management is taking place however current control options are not enough on their own. Suggestions for further research are to explore more alternative indigenous species present or easily accessible to the community members which may offer the same benefits as IAS. Furthermore, additional research at local level is required for implementing management techniques best suited for the area. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mhlongo, Edward Swazi
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Lantana camara -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , Introduced organisms -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , Biological invasions -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , Plant invasions -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , Lantana camara -- Control -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality , South Africa -- Rural conditions , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Vhembe District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177952 , vital:42893
- Description: In the past, social aspects on biological invasions were less documented, this hindered the development of sound and effective management of Invasive Alien Species (IAS). However, there has been a shift in trends with more studies on biological invasions integrating local knowledge together with ecological studies to develop effective management interventions. Invasive Alien Species are widespread throughout Southern Africa and are usually prevalent in the rural areas. Limpopo province consists of large rural areas where people depend on natural resources, wild and exotic species for their livelihoods. Lantana camara is one of the major invaders that is problematic worldwide having detrimental impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and economies. This study assessed the perceptions of the role of L. camara on the well-being and rural livelihoods of local communities in the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve using household surveys. A total of 300 surveys were administered in six villages. The study further used a two-pronged approach to examine invasion extent and management options. The two-pronged approach included (i) detailed vegetation surveys in 50 household yards within each village, and (ii) focus group to solicit local knowledge of invasion extent and managing L. camara by the rural communities. The results of the study showed that almost all the respondents knew L. camara and could describe it. Most of the respondents were of the view that L. camara had no negative impacts on their livelihoods. Other respondents stated costs associated with L. camara were more than benefits and wanted a reduction in L. camara densities in the area. Most respondents wanted more government intervention to help in managing L. camara, this is because of the perceived future impacts of L. camara. Vegetation survey results showed no significant difference in L. camara abundances and plant heights among the six study villages. The average number of L. camara counted per household yard in all villages was (2.41 ± 0.20) plants, with average plant basal diameter of (0.94 ± 0.02 cm). There were significant differences in canopy width of L. camara among the six study villages. Plant basal diameter was high in Tshakhuma (1.05 ± 0.04 m) and Duthuni (1.00 ± 0.04 m) villages, and low in Ha Mutsha village (0.82 ± 0.03 m). Lantana camara canopy width at household level across all villages averaged 1.34 ± 0.03 m. Canopy cover was high in Tshakhuma village (1.70 ± 0.09 m) and low at Ha Mutsha village (1.03 ± 0.03 m). In all six village focus group discussions, it was noted that mechanical clearing of L. camara was the most used method, but they reported minimum help from the government particularly Working for Water (WfW). The study concludes that L. camara has no substantial adverse impacts to most of the respondents. The study further noted that L. camara is dominant in most household yards ii and that management is taking place however current control options are not enough on their own. Suggestions for further research are to explore more alternative indigenous species present or easily accessible to the community members which may offer the same benefits as IAS. Furthermore, additional research at local level is required for implementing management techniques best suited for the area. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effect of water scarcity and coping practices of small-scale farmers in Libode District
- Authors: Jali, Thabisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Water-supply, Agricultural , Water efficiency -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , arms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51661 , vital:43347
- Description: The study sought to investigate the effect of water scarcity and coping practices of small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom. The aim of the research was to assess how small-scale farmers are affected by water scarcity and the coping strategies used to mitigate the effects of water scarcity. The study is located within the interpretive paradigm, where realities are viewed and develops subjective meanings. Qualitative research methodology was adopted for the study as it investigates the subjective opinions of the respondents about the effects of water scarcity and their coping practices. The respondents offered their own opinions about their realities of the effects of water scarcity and coping practices. Both Marhewini and Megacom communities’ experiences water scarcity and they all have developed coping practices. The researcher used semi-structured interviews with small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom as a tool to collect data. The findings from the study shows that Marhewini and Megacom locations have different garden sizes, that is Marhewini has larger gardens. It was found out that both areas (Marhewini and Megacom) experience challenges such as lack of fence and livestock that destroys crops. It was also found out that the effects of water scarcity included loss of interest in farming and delays in crop growth. There were various coping strategies that were used by small-scale farmers such as the idea of creating a water pump system and watering the garden before the crops are planted. It was indicated that most of the respondents did not have knowledge of sustainable development. Water scarcity is a problem facing both communities (Marhewini and Megacom) and the small-scale farmers have developed means to cope with the problem. Based on the findings, valuable recommendations were offered. These includes the farmers forming an association where they can share experience and knowledge. Also, the community could continue working together to ensure the idea of a water system is implemented and businesses (water suppliers) could work with the community to find an arrangement of providing affordable water. The department of water and sanitation could fund the idea of a water system. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Jali, Thabisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Water-supply, Agricultural , Water efficiency -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , arms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51661 , vital:43347
- Description: The study sought to investigate the effect of water scarcity and coping practices of small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom. The aim of the research was to assess how small-scale farmers are affected by water scarcity and the coping strategies used to mitigate the effects of water scarcity. The study is located within the interpretive paradigm, where realities are viewed and develops subjective meanings. Qualitative research methodology was adopted for the study as it investigates the subjective opinions of the respondents about the effects of water scarcity and their coping practices. The respondents offered their own opinions about their realities of the effects of water scarcity and coping practices. Both Marhewini and Megacom communities’ experiences water scarcity and they all have developed coping practices. The researcher used semi-structured interviews with small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom as a tool to collect data. The findings from the study shows that Marhewini and Megacom locations have different garden sizes, that is Marhewini has larger gardens. It was found out that both areas (Marhewini and Megacom) experience challenges such as lack of fence and livestock that destroys crops. It was also found out that the effects of water scarcity included loss of interest in farming and delays in crop growth. There were various coping strategies that were used by small-scale farmers such as the idea of creating a water pump system and watering the garden before the crops are planted. It was indicated that most of the respondents did not have knowledge of sustainable development. Water scarcity is a problem facing both communities (Marhewini and Megacom) and the small-scale farmers have developed means to cope with the problem. Based on the findings, valuable recommendations were offered. These includes the farmers forming an association where they can share experience and knowledge. Also, the community could continue working together to ensure the idea of a water system is implemented and businesses (water suppliers) could work with the community to find an arrangement of providing affordable water. The department of water and sanitation could fund the idea of a water system. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
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