What is a Keylogger?
In simple terms, a keylogger (KL) is a tool designed to capture all keystrokes on a computer, either through software or hardware. This activity is known as keylogging or keystroke logging. While keyloggers are not illegal, their use is often associated with malicious activities.
Positive Uses of a Keylogger
Despite their potential for misuse, keyloggers can have beneficial applications. They can be used by parents to monitor their children’s online activities or by employers to track how employees utilize their computers during work hours, provided that employees give their consent. Additionally, a keylogger may serve to record passwords and other data as a backup in case of an operating system crash, although there are generally better methods for this purpose. Recently, keystroke logging has also been adopted by researchers to study human writing processes.
Negative Uses of a Keylogger
Unfortunately, the primary use of keyloggers is often linked to illicit activities. Cybercriminals widely deploy KL programs to steal sensitive information from victims, including credit card numbers, passwords, personal emails, banking credentials, and driver's license numbers.
Types of Keyloggers
As mentioned earlier, keyloggers can be categorized into two main types: software and hardware.
Hardware Keyloggers
- Typically consist of a small chip or wire attached to a computer or laptop.
- Most hardware keyloggers can be easily removed.
- They collect information that can be accessed via a corresponding computer program, even after removal.
- Preferred by companies wishing to monitor their employees.
- Unlike software keyloggers, some hardware KLs can be integrated into the machine's BIOS, recording data from the moment the computer is powered on.
- Wireless keyloggers can intercept communications between wireless keyboards and the computer.
Software Keyloggers
- Software keyloggers are harder to detect. They often consist of a program secretly installed on your computer by a hacker, either downloaded directly through phishing attacks or remotely.
- The most common type records only keyboard activity, though modified versions can capture screenshots and clipboard data.
- Less common software keyloggers include those based on JavaScript (injected into websites), APIs (operating within applications), and web forms (recording any data submitted).
Preventing a Hardware Keylogger
While it's unlikely you'll encounter a hardware keylogger in your home, it is a possibility in public environments. Since these devices typically utilize a USB port, a good defense is to inspect the USB area of the computer you’re using.When entering sensitive information like passwords, you can confuse potential keyloggers by typing the last character first and then moving your cursor to complete the rest. This way, the keylogger will record the last character as if it were the first. Additionally, selecting and replacing text as you type may be effective, though these methods might not work against more sophisticated keyloggers that record screen activity or mouse movements.
Preventing a Software Keylogger
Although software keyloggers are more difficult to detect, installing reliable antivirus software can help keep you safe. Using anti-keylogger software is also a viable option, as these programs are specifically designed to identify, remove, and prevent keylogger attacks.Be cautious with email attachments and links, and avoid clicking on ads or websites from unknown sources. Keeping your software applications and operating system up to date is essential. Users engaging in internet banking or any online activities involving money, including cryptocurrency traders, should exercise particular caution.
How to Detect and Remove a Keylogger
To detect a software keylogger, check the system processes running on your computer. If you spot anything suspicious, research it online to determine whether it belongs to a legitimate program or is a known keylogger. Examining your outgoing network traffic is also advisable.Removing a software keylogger can be challenging but is achievable. Start by installing an anti-keylogger program and see if it can remove the suspicious software. If your computer continues to behave unusually and you suspect the anti-keylogger failed to resolve the issue, you may need to format your hard drive and completely reinstall your operating system.
