What Is A Keylogger?

Date First Published: 4th May 2023

Topic: Cybersecurity

Subtopic: Threats To Systems, Data & Information

Article Type: Computer Terms & Definitions

Difficulty: Medium

Difficulty Level: 4/10

CONTENTS

Protection
Signs Of A Keylogger
Non-Malicious Keyloggers

Learn more about what spyware is in this article.

A keylogger is a type of spyware that records all keystrokes the user makes and sends that data to a third party. Keyloggers can record sensitive information, like usernames, passwords and bank details. They are designed to sneakily record everything you type on your computer without your permission or knowledge, becoming a great security risk. As suggested in the word, what a keylogger does is quite obvious. It logs (records) every keystroke, which basically means every instance of you pressing a key on your keyboard.

Keyloggers do not require a physical connection to send the keystrokes to a third party. The data may be recorded in a text file and then sent to a third party over a network so that they can spy on what you are typing. However, keyloggers can be hardware-based and connect using a USB stick, which is very difficult to detect by an antivirus. This will require physical access to the device and they are usually hidden in the back of a computer where most people wouldn't look.

Keyloggers are a privacy violation and can cause data breaches. Some keyloggers may be able to remotely access your computer, take screenshots, record your browsing and search history, and record which apps you use and for how long.

Protection

The best way to protect a computer from keyloggers is by using anti-keylogger software that is designed to stop keyloggers from running. Most antiviruses have built-in keylogger protection and can detect and remove keyloggers. Since keyloggers run in the background and don't usually harm any files or applications, they can be difficult to detect and some may go undetected for several months. Therefore, you should regularly run a full scan and check all the running processes of your computer to ensure that there is nothing suspicious. If you are unsure of a specific program or process on your computer, you should look it up online.

Always be careful of any files you have downloaded from the internet and any email attachments you have received and do not open them unless you absolutely trust them. This is because downloads from malicious websites can also install a keylogger onto your computer that will silently run in the background without you knowing.

Signs Of A Keylogger

The following signs indicate that your computer may have a keylogger installed:

Suspicious programs or processes that you don't recognise.
System performance issues, including freezing applications, crashes, and a slow response time.
Delayed typing - Keyloggers can slow down your typing.
Unrecognised access or use of your online accounts - This is because keyloggers can steal your account credentials and allow someone to access them without your permission.
Keyboard and mouse malfunctions.

Non-Malicious Keyloggers

When you think of a keylogger, you might think of it as a type of spyware. However, not all types of keyloggers are malicious and they can be beneficial. Keyloggers can be used by organisations for IT departments to troubleshoot technical problems on computers. However, companies have to get permission for this type of keylogging. Without permission, this would be considered a form of data theft. Parents can also use keylogging to monitor their children's activities and protect them online.