These tools can reach you at a few different levels:
Some of them are also able to track everything from information copied to your clipboard to location data and can even tap your microphone and camera. These Trojan-spy programs can track your activity (including keystrokes and screenshots), save the data to your hard disk, and then forward the information to cybercriminals. Many software-based keyloggers have rootkit functionality, meaning they’re able to hide in your system.
Malicious keylogging mechanisms break down into two broad categories: software and hardware. Hackers’ main goal is to obtain victims’ passwords, personal information, usernames, and banking information, enabling them to make bank transfers, open credit lines, and make purchases. Types of keyloggersįor the general public, keyloggers are most commonly spread online via phishing scams, Trojan viruses, and fake websites. In short, keyloggers can either be tools or weapons, depending on who is installing them and how they’re using the acquired information. Keylogging malware can infect your computer through many of the same mechanisms as other common viruses, but it can also be intentionally purchased and downloaded.
Infected systems: Keyloggers can take advantage of an already-infected device or system and install other malicious software into that system.Developers learn of the vulnerabilities too late to protect users. These are particularly dangerous because once the systems are infected, they then become more susceptible to further attacks.
Zero-day exploit: A zero-day exploit happens when hackers discover latent software security flaws and use them to deliver malware through tactics like malicious webpage scripts and Trojans.Trojan viruses: Named after the giant wooden horse Greece used to infiltrate Troy during the Trojan War, hackers trick users into downloading a Trojan virus by disguising it as a legitimate file or application.
Phishing emails: By clicking a link or downloading an attachment in a phishing email, text message, instant message, or social media post, you could accidentally download malware designed to track keystrokes.Keystroke malware comes in a variety of forms: They record every keyboard interaction a user has, allowing a third party to see a complete log of every email, instant message, search query, password, username, or other keyed sequences that user types. Whether the use is legal or illegal, all keylogging mechanisms work essentially the same way. What makes these tools problematic are issues of actor intent and victim consent. The software itself isn’t necessarily problematic if you signed an agreement to use the device it’s installed on or if it was packaged in your device’s software suite. Keystroke trackers are readily available, and there may be one installed on the very device you’re using to read this. Keyloggers can be used legally ( some people even install them on their own devices), and you may have even used a computer with software installed to log keystrokes for monitoring and ensuring safe or approved use.īut what keylogging means for everyday users is very different from what it means for cybercriminals. Malicious actors can also use them to capture your personal and financial information, PIN codes and account numbers, credit card numbers, usernames, passwords, and other sensitive data - all of which can be used to commit fraud or identity theft.
What is a keylogger?Ī keylogger (or keystroke logger) is a type of software or hardware used to track and record what someone types on their keyboard.
Keylogger-based malware has become another dangerous weapon in cyberattackers’ arsenals. It’s important to understand what a keylogger is, how to spot one, how to prevent keylogging malware, and how to secure your personal information. There may not be anything inherently unethical about a keylogger, but in the hands of a malicious user, a keylogger can cause serious damage. Though it can be performed legally, it’s also a form of data monitoring that hackers and identity thieves use to acquire people’s personal information. Keylogging, also known as keystroke logging, is the act of recording a user’s keyboard interactions and device activity. Now imagine finding out someone had been hiding behind you, watching every single key you typed. Social media, chat with friends, search for information, check your bank account, shop for products - things so ordinary you may not even remember them all. You might compose work emails, sign in to Think about everything you do on a computer or phone in a given day.