Key Takeaways
- Function: A software (or hardware) that records keystrokes.
- Steals: Passwords, Credit Card numbers, private chats.
- Legitimate Use: Sometimes used by IT to troubleshoot or parents to monitor kids (controversial).
- Detection: Hard to detect manually. You need an Anti-Malware scan.
You type "gmail.com", then your username, then your password. The keylogger saves: "g-m-a-i-l-.-c-o-m-[enter]-m-y-u-s-e-r-[tab]-m-y-s-e-c-r-e-t-p-a-s-s". The hacker now has everything.
Hardware vs Software
Software Keyloggers: A virus you accidentally downloaded. It runs in the background. Most common.
Hardware Keyloggers: A physical USB plug inserted between the keyboard and the computer tower. Often used in corporate espionage or library computers. Check the back of the PC!
How On-Screen Keyboards help
Banking sites sometimes make you click letters on the screen with your mouse instead of typing. This bypasses hardware keyloggers because no keys are physically pressed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does my antivirus catch keyloggers?
Usually, yes. Known keylogger variants are in the virus database. However, generic "monitoring tools" might be ignored as "Potentially Unwanted Programs". You often have to enable "Scan for PUPs".
I think I have one. What do I do?
Stop typing sensitive info! Disconnect from the internet. Run a Malwarebytes scan. If you used your bank account recently, call your bank from a different device (phone) immediately.
Check for infections.
Remove Malware Guide