What is Keylogging?
Keylogging, also known as keystroke logging, is a method used by attackers to covertly record the keystrokes typed by a user on their keyboard. This allows attackers to capture sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal messages.
How Keylogging Works
Keyloggers can be software-based or hardware-based. Software keyloggers install malicious software on a victim's computer to capture keystrokes, while hardware keyloggers are physical devices connected between the keyboard and computer to intercept keystrokes.
Impacts of Keylogging
Keylogging can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, unauthorized access to personal accounts, and compromise of sensitive information.
Preventing Keylogging
- Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to detect and remove keyloggers.
- Regularly update operating systems and software to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources.
- Use virtual keyboards for entering sensitive information to protect against software-based keyloggers.