What is a keylogger?

In simple terms, a keylogger (KL) is a tool designed to capture all keystrokes of a computer, either through a software program or through a hardware device Record. This logging behavior is also known as keylogging or keystroke logging. While keyloggers are not illegal, their use is often associated with malicious operations.

Positive uses of keylogging

Although it is used for some illegal activities, keyloggers do have some positive uses use cases. Used well, it can help parents monitor their children's computer activity, or be used by employers to determine how their employees are using their computers at work. It’s worth mentioning that this should be done with the employee’s consent. Keyloggers can also be used to protect (record) passwords and other data in the event of an operating system crash (but there's definitely a better way). Additionally, scientists have recently adopted keystroke logging as a research tool to study the human writing process.

Negative Uses of Keyloggers

As the name suggests, the purpose of a keylogger is to record every click on the target computer. Key, that's not necessarily a bad thing. Unfortunately, however, the most common uses of keyloggers are related to malicious activities. Keylogger programs are being widely used by cybercriminals to steal victims’ sensitive information such as credit card numbers, passwords, personal emails, bank credentials, driver’s license numbers, etc.

Types of Keyloggers

As mentioned before, there are two main types of keylogging devices. Software version and hardware version. It's important to understand the differences between these two types. Although the most common is the software version, we should still understand the function of hardware keyloggers.

Hardware keylogger:

• Usually consists of a small chip or wire that is physically connected to a computer or laptop.

• Most hardware keyloggers can be easily removed.

• Even after the chip or wire has been removed, the information can be viewed using a corresponding computer program.

• Often the preferred type of keylogger for companies looking to take care of their employees.

• Unlike software keyloggers, firmware versions of hardware keyloggers can connect to the machine's BIOS and log in after the computer is turned on. Record data immediately

• Wireless keylogging sniffers are capable of intercepting communications between wireless keyboards and computers.

Software Keylogger

Unfortunately, software keyloggers are more Difficult to detect. They come in many different categories, using different methods and techniques, but in general we might consider the following:

• It usually consists of a software program that a hacker secretly installs on your computer. It can be downloaded directly on the host (e.g. via a phishing attack) or remotely.

• The most common software keyloggers only record computer keyboard activity, but there are also modified versions capable of performing screenshots and clipboard logging Record.

• Less common types of software include software based on: Javascript (injected into a website), API (run within an application ) and web forms (logging any data submitted to the web form).

How to prevent hardware keyloggers

Generally speaking, you don’t It's possible to be hacked by a hardware keylogger, especially in your own home. However, it is possible in a public environment. Since hardware keyloggers will often use USB ports to operate, your main defense is to do a spot check of the USB area of the computer being used.

The mouse can also be used to obfuscate keyloggers when entering sensitive information, such as passwords. For example, enter the last character of the password first, then move the cursor to enter the remaining characters. The keylogger will record as if the last character was the first. Selecting and replacing text while typing is also an option. You can try these variations or other deceptive typing techniques. However, this is not a true defense, and it does not work against more sophisticated keyloggers, such as those that record screen or mouse activity.

How to prevent software keyloggers 

• Software Keyboard Loggers are harder to detect, but installing good antivirus software will probably keep you safe.

• Installing anti-keylogger software is also an option as they are specifically designed to detect, remove and prevent keylogger attacks.

• Be careful with email attachments and links. Avoid clicking on ads and websites from unknown sources.

• Keep software applications and operating systems updated.

• Any user using online banking or any other online activity involving money should exercise special caution (including cryptocurrency and traders) .

How to detect and remove keyloggers 

Detect software keyloggers The simplest way to check the system is to check the processes running on your system. If something looks strange, you should search online and try to find out whether it's from a legitimate program or a known keylogger. Also, it's a good idea to check your computer's upload traffic.

Removing software keyloggers is not easy, but it is doable. You should first try to install an anti-keylogger on your system and check if you can remove it. If your computer is still acting strangely and you suspect that an anti-keylogger won't fix the problem, you should completely format and reinstall the operating system.