How to Find a Keystroke Recorder on My Computer
Keystroke recorders, also known as keyloggers, are a variation of standard spyware programs that specifically log anything you type on your keyboard. The letters and numbers you type are saved in a log that is then sent to another computer. Anyone monitoring the keystroke recorder will have access to the passwords and credit card information you type. To find a keylogger on your computer, you will need to use a spyware-removal program that scans your hard drive for malicious programs.
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Instructions
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Use one of the Resources links to access a website that offers an anti-spyware program such as "Spybot" or "Spycop." Download the program and then follow the installation instructions on the screen.
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Open the anti-spyware program. Click the "Update Now" button. Click "Next" and wait for the latest keylogging updates to finish installing.
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Close the spyware program and restart the computer. Tap the "F2" key when the computer manufacturer's logo pops up on the screen. Scroll down to "Safe Mode" and press Enter.
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Disconnect your computer from its Internet source by unplugging your wireless router or disconnecting the wired Ethernet cable. Bring up the anti-spyware program.
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Click "Check for Problems" or the equivalent option for the anti-spyware program you downloaded. Look through the list of spyware that was discovered and see if any are listed as keystroke recorders.
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Click the check box next to the keystroke recorder you want to remove. Click "Remove Selected Problems."
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Tips & Warnings
You may need to use a key other than "F2" to bring up the Safe Mode menu depending on the specific model and manufacturer of your computer system. Other common keys include "Esc," "F10" and "F11."
Change all of your passwords for your computer and any websites you visit after removing a keylogger. If you have typed your credit card information into a website, you should also contact your credit card company and have a new number issued.
Not all anti-spyware programs can catch every single keystroke recorder. You may want to download and run more than one anti-spyware program in case the first one misses anything.
