Whether the use is legal or illegal, all keylogging mechanisms work essentially the same way. What makes these tools problematic are issues of actor intent and victim consent. The software itself isn’t necessarily problematic if you signed an agreement to use the device it’s installed on or if it was packaged in your device’s software suite. Keystroke trackers are readily available, and there may be one installed on the very device you’re using to read this. Keyloggers can be used legally ( some people even install them on their own devices), and you may have even used a computer with software installed to log keystrokes for monitoring and ensuring safe or approved use.īut what keylogging means for everyday users is very different from what it means for cybercriminals. Malicious actors can also use them to capture your personal and financial information, PIN codes and account numbers, credit card numbers, usernames, passwords, and other sensitive data - all of which can be used to commit fraud or identity theft. What is a keylogger?Ī keylogger (or keystroke logger) is a type of software or hardware used to track and record what someone types on their keyboard. Keylogger-based malware has become another dangerous weapon in cyberattackers’ arsenals. It’s important to understand what a keylogger is, how to spot one, how to prevent keylogging malware, and how to secure your personal information. There may not be anything inherently unethical about a keylogger, but in the hands of a malicious user, a keylogger can cause serious damage. Though it can be performed legally, it’s also a form of data monitoring that hackers and identity thieves use to acquire people’s personal information. Keylogging, also known as keystroke logging, is the act of recording a user’s keyboard interactions and device activity. Now imagine finding out someone had been hiding behind you, watching every single key you typed. Social media, chat with friends, search for information, check your bank account, shop for products - things so ordinary you may not even remember them all. You might compose work emails, sign in to

Think about everything you do on a computer or phone in a given day.

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