Define Keylogger
There are several types of computer viruses, Trojan horses, worms, and other malware that can harm your computer or expose data on it. A keylogger is one such type of malware.
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Keylogger Basics
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A keylogger is a malicious piece of software that records (logs) every key press you make on your keyboard. It does not do any harm to your computer, but it does monitor all of your keyboard activity.
Keylogger Behavior
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A keylogger typically requires an Internet connection. Periodically, the keylogger will transmit its logs to another computer over the Internet. The keylogger's programming code contains the Internet address of this computer.
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Detection
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Since this is only text, it can be transmitted quickly and quietly without having any noticeable effect on your Internet connection. And a keylogger will never advertise its presence on your computer, and will rarely even slow it down.
Removal
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Most anti-virus (AV) programs are designed to detect and remove keyloggers. If you do not have an AV program or cannot purchase one, programs such as Ad-Aware or Spybot Search & Destroy can be obtained for free from their developers' websites.
General Threat Level
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If you discover a keylogger, removing it and changing your passwords may be sufficient protection. However, monitor your bank account and credit cards for unauthorized transactions, and contact customer service as soon as you detect such a transaction.
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