A keylogger is software or hardware capable of recording input from a computer keyboard and intercepting keystrokes without the user’s knowledge.
How they spread
Keyloggers commonly infect users via email attachments and infected websites. They can also be downloaded and installed by other malware already present on a victim’s machine.
What they are after
Keyloggers intercept a user’s keystrokes. They can be used legally, for example, by businesses to monitor what their employees do, but are frequently used for illicit purposes to capture sensitive information.
How to protect yourself from keyloggers
The best way to protect yourself from keyloggers is to stay away from untrusted apps on the Internet. They might seem useful, and they’re probably even free, but unless they come from a reliable source you shouldn’t install them.
Here’s how you can keep your computer keylogger-free:
Always use an antivirus to prevent suspicious apps from being installed on your computer without your knowledge. An antivirus detects and blocks malware in real-time and protects you from the latest threats, absolutely free.
Set up Firewalls to block unauthorized apps from accessing the Internet.
Lock your PC. Hopefully no one in your household has any trust issues, but just in case, lock your PC when you’re not there. This way, no one can get access to your computer when you’re not looking.
Be careful on public or shared computers. Don’t access your banking, email, or social media accounts from public or shared computers, and don’t send any sensitive information via chat either. It’s always a good idea to check for keylogging hardware, too.
Use a reliable password manager to access your accounts quickly and safely, without having to type in your details every time. This way keyloggers won’t be able to steal your login info.