You may call it a keylogger, spyware or monitoring software, but that doesn’t matter. It will still be the equivalent of digital surveillance, revealing every click and touch, every download and
conversation, and nowadays every action or word you say.
What is a keylogger?
A keylogger is a software that tracks or logs the keys typed on your keyboard, typically in a hidden mode so that you don’t know that your actions are being monitored. This is usually done with malicious intent to collect your account information, credit card numbers, usernames, passwords, and other private data.
How a keylogger would get on your computer?
Keyloggers spread in much the same way that other malicious programs spread. They are spread through some sources such as:
a. P2P Files (Torrent Sites)
b. Opening files that are e-mailed to you
c. Warez download
d. Pornographic websites
e. Social networks
How does a keylogger work?
A keylogger runs hidden in the background, making a note of each keystroke you type. After it records the keystrokes it will send the recorded keystrokes into the hacker’s address (by E-Mail or FTP). Then after that the hacker has to download and open them and that’s it – Your account is compromised.
Why are they so dangerous?
Keyloggers are one of the most dangerous forms of malware, as you won’t realize they’re running. They hide in the background and don’t cause any trouble, capturing credit card numbers and passwords for as long as they can evade detection.
How do you detect a keylogger?
Keyloggers are tricky to detect. Some signs that you may have a keylogger on your device include: slower performance when web browsing, your mouse or keystrokes pause or don’t show up onscreen.
How to protect yourself from keyloggers?
a. Use a firewall
b. Install a password manager
c. Change your passwords frequently
d. Use caution when opening attachments – files received via email, P2P networks.
e. Try an alternative keyboard layout
f. Use a comprehensive security solution (Kaspersky, Bitdefender Total Security)
Some of the most “notorious” keyloggers?
a. Ardamax Keylogger
b. Project Neptune Keylogger
c. Hawkeye
d. Syslogger
e. Aux Logger
f. Unknown Logger Public
g. UltimateLogger
h. Perfect Keylogger
Article provided by Agron Muharemi