Keyboard Logger Virus

Keylogger viruses record strokes on a computer's keyboard.

A keylogger virus is malicious software that records computer keystrokes. Keylogger viruses are used by hackers to steal personal information, such as bank account details and credit card numbers.

Function

Keylogger viruses make cybercrime easier for hackers. The viruses record keystroke information and program the computer to report back to the hacker.

Features

Keylogger viruses enable criminals to track people's online activity and read their correspondence, according to the OnlineCyberSafety website. They may harvest passwords, log-in names and financial information. They may also make a computer run slowly, interfere with programs and delete files.

Prevention/Solution

A firewall can protect against keylogger viruses by blocking unauthorized incoming and outgoing communication. Installing antivirus and anti-spyware software and keeping it up to date is also effective.

Considerations

Malicious keyloggers may also be embedded in worms, spyware and Trojans, which are malicious programs masquerading as beneficial ones.

References

• OnlineCyberSafety: Keylogger
• AuditMyPC: keylogger.exe (ABC Keylogger) -- Details
• Microsoft: 4 steps to protect your computer