Keylogging (or keystroke logging) is the practice of recording every key pressed on a keyboard, usually without the user’s knowledge or consent. The primary goal is to capture sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, personal messages, and other confidential data as they are typed.
Types of Keyloggers
There are two main types of keyloggers:
• Software Keyloggers: Malicious programs installed on a device, often delivered through infected downloads, email attachments, or compromised websites. These can operate at various levels, such as intercepting keyboard input via system hooks, monitoring API calls, or even running at the kernel level for deeper access. Software keyloggers can also periodically send the captured data to remote attackers.
• Hardware Keyloggers: Physical devices connected between the keyboard and the computer, or embedded inside the keyboard itself. These require physical access to install and cannot spread like software, but they also record keystrokes and store or transmit the data for later retrieval.
Uses of Keyloggers
Keyloggers can be used for both legitimate and malicious purposes:
• Legitimate uses: Employers monitoring employee activity, parents supervising children, or IT departments troubleshooting devices.
• Malicious uses: Cybercriminals use keyloggers to steal login credentials, financial information, and other private data for identity theft or fraud.
Impact and Risks
Keyloggers pose a significant security risk because they can covertly capture vast amounts of sensitive information. Advanced keyloggers may also record screenshots, clipboard contents, and even audio or video from a device’s microphone or camera.