How to Detect a Key Logger
Key loggers are programs or hardware accessories that capture and store information sent to a computer from the mouse and keyboard. Key loggers are installed to monitor employees or children, but are described as computer viruses when they are installed without the user's consent.
Key loggers can interfere with your computer's operations by consuming resources, installing unwanted programs and redirecting internet queries.
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Instructions
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Follow your mouse and keyboard cords to the computer to detect hardware key loggers. Hardware key loggers are often connected between the cord and the corresponding input slot on the back of your computer.
Some hardware key loggers are connected to your motherboard or are integrated into your computer's internal system. It is recommended that you enlist a professional to help you detect internal hardware key loggers.
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Prepare your computer for a software key logger search by restarting your computer, allowing it to run its normal boot procedure. Do not initiate any programs manually, wait for all start-up programs to run.
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Open the Task Manager by holding the Control and Alt keys and pressing Delete. Check the "Tasks" and "Processes" tabs for any suspicious or unfamiliar program names. Research any suspect programs online.
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Select the "Run" function from your computer's Start menu. Enter "msconfig" to open your computer's start-up configuration menu. Key loggers that evade your Task Manager may not be able to avoid this menu. Research any strange or unexpected start-up programs.
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Download a reputable antivirus program if you cannot detect a key logger, or are unsure if you have found one. Many antivirus programs are updated regularly to combat new, evolved key logger programs. Select your antivirus software carefully as some programs contain viruses. Hundreds of free key logger detection programs are available online.
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