Keylogger Definition
A keylogger, also known as keystroke logger or system monitor, is a type of surveillance technology used to monitor and record every keystroke made on a computer, smartphone, or other device’s keyboard. Often deployed as malicious software (malware), a keylogger can capture sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal data without the user’s knowledge or consent.
Keylogger Key Points
- A keylogger is a type of surveillance technology that can capture every keystroke made on a device.
- It’s often used as malware to record sensitive information.
- Keyloggers can operate without the user’s knowledge or consent.
Who Uses a Keylogger?
Many different parties might use a keylogger. From law enforcement agencies conducting investigations to cybercriminals intent on stealing sensitive data, the users of keyloggers vary widely. Parents might also use a keylogger to monitor their children’s online behaviour, while employers could deploy them to check on employees’ activities during working hours.
What Does a Keylogger Do?
A keylogger records every keystroke made on a device, effectively logging all keyboard activity. This surveillance technology, once installed, can capture a wide range of information including passwords, credit card numbers, email addresses, and other personal details that a user enters using the keyboard.
When is a Keylogger Used?
Keyloggers can be used whenever someone wants to monitor another person’s keyboard activities. For example, a cybercriminal might use a keylogger to steal personal and financial information, while an employer might use one to monitor employees’ productivity or detect inappropriate use of company resources.
Where is a Keylogger Installed?
A keylogger can be installed on any computing device that has a keyboard, including desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Once installed, it operates in the background without the user’s knowledge, quietly logging every keystroke and frequently sending this information to a third party.
Why are Keyloggers Used?
While keyloggers can be used for legitimate purposes, such as by law enforcement agencies carrying out investigations or parents monitoring their children’s online activities, they are also popular tools among cybercriminals. By recording sensitive information like passwords and credit card details, keyloggers can enable identity theft, fraud, and other forms of cybercrime.
How Does a Keylogger Work?
A keylogger works by operating in the background of a device’s operating system, recording every keystroke made on the keyboard. The logged data is then frequently sent to a third party, or stored on the device for later retrieval. Some advanced keyloggers can also capture screen shots, record instant messages, and even track a device’s physical location.
