What would you do if a cybercriminal could see everything you type? From your most personal emails and messages to your banking details and online shopping passwords, your entire digital life would be compromised.
Welcome to keystroke logging, the malicious practice that secretly records every key pressed on your keyboard.
In this article, we'll explore keystroke logging, examples of its applications as well as how to detect and prevent keystroke logging.
What is Keystroke Logging?
Keystroke logging is the act of recording the keys you press on your keyboard. These can either be recorded through software programs that are installed on your device or physically through hardware devices inserted between the keyboard and computer.
There are some legitimate uses for keystroke logging applications, such as parents using them to monitor children's online activities or employers using them to ensure compliance for those working with highly sensitive data. IT professionals also utilize keystroke logging in diagnosing technical issues remotely.
However, keystroke logging is best known as a technique employed by cybercriminals. Cybercriminals use keyloggers to record and steal sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal messages. This stolen data can be used for further cyber crimes including identity theft, financial fraud, or social engineering scams.
Beyond this, malicious keystroke logging can also be used to monitor someones online activity including personal emails, without their knowledge. This significant breach of privacy can be a massive betrayal of trust and used for personal stalking and harassment.
What are Some Examples of Keystroke Logging Applications?
Keystroke logging applications can be broadly classified into two distinct types: legitimate and malicious.
Legitimate keystroke logging applications are used by parents to monitor children's online activities or employers to ensure compliance for those working with highly sensitive data. IT professionals also utilize keystroke logging in diagnosing technical issues remotely.
Key examples of legitimate keystroke logging applications include Refog Personal Monitor, which tracks keystrokes, website visits, and application usage as well as mSpy, that is known for phone monitoring and Mac keylogging.
Illegitimate key logging applications are designed to operate undetected, stealing passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive data. They sometimes utilize Remote Access Trojans (RATs) that enable attackers to remotely control a computer and install keyloggers and other malware.
How to Detect Keystroke Logging Software?
Detecting keystroke logging software can be difficult as they are usually designed to operate secretly.
Unusual system behaviour such as slow performance, unexpected program launches, and strange network activity can be an indication of keystroke logging or other malicious software.
Specialized keystroke logger detection tools are designed to identify and remove hidden keylogger processes that can compromise existing security software.
These tools use advanced techniques to detect hidden keylogger processes, including behavioral analysis, heuristic analysis, rootkit detection, and memory scanning.
Behavioral analysis involves monitoring system behavior for anomalies that may indicate the presence of a keylogger, such as unusual network activity, high resource usage, or unexpected program launches.
Heuristic analysis utilizes sophisticated algorithms to identify patterns and behaviors characteristic of keyloggers, even if they haven't been encountered before.
Rootkit detection is crucial as some keyloggers attempt to hide themselves by modifying system files or processes.
Examples of specialized keylogger detection tools include Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, HitmanPro.Alert, and SpyHunter.
How to Prevent Keystroke Logging?
Keystroke logging is a significant threat to not only your privacy but your finances. It is vitally important that you keep up to date with the latest trends in cybersecurity to prevent threats as they evolve.
Ensure that you update your passwords for all online accounts, including email, social media, and online banking. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and enable multi-factor authentication.
Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements for any unusual activity. Report any suspicious transactions immediately and consider freezing your credit.
Be aware that any information being compromised may make you a target for social engineering and phishing scams. These scams often involve impersonating trusted individuals or organizations using information they already have about you to convince you to hand over money or further details. Remain skeptical of anyone asking you for information.
