A keystroke logger, commonly known as a keylogger, is a type of software that is used for recording keystrokes typed by a keyboard. It was first intended to determine errors in computer databases, but they are also used to measure employee productivity. Keyloggers are also used in law enforcement to detect online sexual predators. Unfortunately, keyloggers are also used to spy on the activities of other computer users. Hackers use keyloggers to retrieve information from users like passwords and PINs.
There are many ways to combat the risks of keystroke loggers. The best way is to install anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Keyloggers most often come in the form of Trojan horses, viruses, or spyware. It is highly recommended to install a credible anti-virus on your system. The best anti-virus programs would be Norton and McAfee; however, if you want to save money, the most economical anti-virus would be AVG Free Edition. AVG is free anti-virus that provides many of the services and security tools provided on popular retail anti-virus software. Ad-Aware is one of the best free anti-spyware programs available.
Apart from anti-virus software, there are several other ways to prevent keylogging software. The most obvious way is to be aware of the programs running on your computer. Keyloggers usually conceal themselves and run in the background. Use Task Manager (Ctrl + Alt + Delete) to carefully investigate all programs running on your computer.
Another way to avoid keyloggers would be to enable firewalls. Firewalls prevent outside sources from accessing your computer. Firewalls are highly recommended especially for DSL and cable users because if your internet is constantly connected that makes your computer more vulnerable to internet hackers using keyloggers. The Windows XP operating system already has built in firewall software, but you can also download ZoneAlarm, a free firewall software.
You may never know that your keystrokes are being monitored by keylogging software. Just in case, you may need to adopt new security precautions to minimize the risks of keystroke logging. If you frequently enter sensitive information like financial information, it’s highly recommended that you use a automated form-filler. Automated form-fillers save certain types of information so that you don’t have to retype it every time you need it. You may need to use automated form-fillers if you frequently enter credit or debit card numbers.
Another way to minimize the risk of keyloggers would be to use onscreen keyboards. Onscreen keyboards are keyboards that are used with the mouse instead of the keyboard. There is no way for keylogging software to record keystrokes made using the mouse, so it is recommended that you use an onscreen keyboard to input financial information or any other type of sensitive data.
