A keylogger, short for keystroke logger, is a type of software or hardware device that is designed to covertly record and monitor the keystrokes typed on a computer keyboard. Keyloggers are often used for surveillance purposes or by malicious actors to capture sensitive information, such as passwords, usernames, credit card numbers, and other confidential data entered by users.
Keyloggers can operate at various levels of the computing environment:
- Software-based keyloggers: These are programs or malicious software installed on a computer system without the user’s knowledge or consent. Once installed, software-based keyloggers run in the background, recording keystrokes typed on the keyboard and storing them in a hidden location or transmitting them to a remote server controlled by the attacker.
- Hardware-based keyloggers: These are physical devices connected between the keyboard and the computer or built into the keyboard itself. Hardware-based keyloggers capture keystrokes directly from the keyboard circuitry before they are processed by the computer, allowing them to operate independently of the operating system or security software installed on the computer.
Keyloggers can be used for various purposes, including:
- Monitoring employee activity in the workplace.
- Tracking children’s online activities.
- Conducting surveillance for law enforcement or intelligence purposes.
- Stealing sensitive information for identity theft, financial fraud, or espionage.
To protect against keyloggers, users should practice good cybersecurity hygiene, such as keeping their operating systems and software up-to-date with security patches, using reputable antivirus or antimalware software, avoiding downloading or installing software from untrusted sources, and being cautious of phishing emails or suspicious websites. Additionally, using virtual keyboards or secure password managers can help mitigate the risk of keystroke logging on compromised systems.