What are Keyloggers, and how do they work
Cyber threats to your computer may look like something out of a spy movie or sci-fi film. They are real, and you may not be aware of them, but they are real.
According to the 2020 Threat Report from SophosLabs, attackers are increasing their inventiveness. They are exploiting vulnerabilities using a variety of malware exploits, such as a keylogger attack.
What’s a keylogger?
Keylogger stands for keystroke logging. It is malicious software that logs every keystroke you make on your computer. Keyloggers are a form of spyware malware designed to spy on victims. Keyloggers can be used to capture all of your typing and are the most intrusive form of malware.
There are two types of keyloggers. One is software; the other is hardware. Because keylogger hardware requires physical access, keylogger software is more popular than keylogger software.
Keylogger Software
Remote access software keyloggers allow remote access to data stored locally. One of these methods can be used to communicate this information:
- I am uploading data to a website or database.
- I am emailing data periodically to a predetermined email address.
- Wireless data transmission via an attached hardware system
- Remote login software for your local machine
Software keyloggers can also include features that allow you to capture additional information without input from your keyboard. These include:
Clipboard logging: Anything that can be copied to the clipboard will be recorded.
Screen logging: Randomly-timed screenshots of your computer’s screen are recorded.
Control text capture: The Windows API allows programs to request the text values of certain controls. This means your password could be captured even though it is behind a password mask. (The asterisks you see as you enter your password into a form)
Activity tracking: Tracking which folders, programs, and windows are being opened. Recording search engine queries, instant message conversations, FTP downloads, and any other internet activity.
Hardware keyloggers
The hardware keylogger functions in the same way as its software counterpart. Hardware keyloggers must be connected to the target machine to capture the user’s keystrokes. This is the biggest difference. Organizations must monitor who has access and what devices are connected to the network.
An unauthorized person could install a hardware keylogger to access a network device. This may go undetected until it has collected sensitive information. Once the hardware keystroke loggers are done keylogging, the data is stored on the device, which the hacker can download.
After the keylogger has completed logging keystrokes, the downloading must be done. The hacker cannot access the data while the keylogger is still working. Sometimes, hackers may make the keylogger device available via Wi-Fi. They don’t have to go to the hacker’s computer to retrieve the data.
Keyloggers are a threat
Cybercriminals might be able to record and use any information you type. Cybercriminals may be able to hack your devices without you knowing. You can easily gather a lot of information from the data you input on your devices through email, text messages, login credentials, and web browsing.
Cybercriminals can use keylogging malware to steal sensitive data such as bank account numbers, PINs, or Social Security numbers. However, they may also be able to access more private information like browsing data, conversations, and audio or video recordings. Cybercriminals can gain access to this information and make you vulnerable to these threats.
Is it possible to detect keyloggers?
Keyloggers can be detected, but they cannot be easy. Keyloggers, like most malicious software, are meant to be hidden. It is easiest to detect malware using powerful antivirus software. This will block keyloggers from infecting your device.
If you suspect a keylogger has infected you, be aware of the warning signs and immediately use a malware remover tool.
What are the warning signs for keyloggers?
Keyloggers have warning signs that are similar to other types of malware. If you suspect that you have a keystroke logger installed on your device, here are the warning signs:
Slow performance. Your computer’s performance could be affected if it suddenly sends all your keystrokes to hackers.
Unexpected crashes or freezes. Other apps can crash and freeze more frequently than normal.
Changed settings. It could indicate malicious software, such as a keylogger, that your browser has suddenly changed its homepage, toolbars, or icons.
Unusual redirects. It could be a malicious redirect.
Download an anti-spyware tool to find out if there is a keylogger on your computer. Avastin can detect all types of spyware, including keyloggers, info stealers, and rootkits. It will even help you to remove it in a matter of seconds. Protect yourself with one of the most powerful threat-detection networks around the globe so that you don’t fall prey to hackers again.
How can I protect my devices from keylogging?
A high-quality antivirus program or firewall is the best way to prevent keylogging. To make infection less likely, you can take additional precautions.
It also allows you to manage and view your passwords. These programs can often auto-fill passwords, making it possible to avoid typing.
A keylogger can’t record strokes if you aren’t typing. Asterisks often replace password characters, so even a video surveillance system wouldn’t be able to determine what was typed. You can also use multifactor authentication (MFA) if you have the choice. While a keylogger could deduce your password using the second phase, they may not be able to deter you.
Keyloggers cannot access your keystrokes if you have a virtual keyboard. A hypervisor-based keylogger cannot access keystrokes made on a virtual keyboard. It runs under your main operating system. To access the virtual keyboard of a Windows computer, you can simultaneously press the Windows key + “R.”
Conclusion
To guard your business against keyloggers and new threats, it is essential to always stay ahead of the game with your security measures and employ a multi-layered and multiple-layered strategy.
Keyloggers are, naturally, not the only cyber threat among numerous threats facing businesses at present. However, with the right precautions, you could reduce the risk of keyloggers to be concerned about.
