How to Detect a Keylogger on a PC
Keyloggers are applications which record every keystroke to a log file. Most keyloggers are malicious and used to steal personal information like Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, passwords and more. Malicious keyloggers are able to connect to the Internet to transmit information that has been captured by the program. Standard anti-virus programs should usually prevent the installation of keyloggers and remove them in the event of infection, but if you fear that a keylogger is being used on your computer that your anti-virus has not found, follow the steps below to determine if the threat is real.
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Instructions
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Launch Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Delete and then selecting "Task Manager."
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Select the "Processes" tab.
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Examine the list of running processes, investigating further any unfamiliar or suspicious processes on the Internet.
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Select "Start," "Run" and enter "msconfig" to launch the system configuration utility.
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Select the "Startup" tab.
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Examine the list of programs which run at Windows startup, removing any which are unfamiliar or suspicious.
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Select "Start," and "Search for files or folders."
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Specify your search to include all files and set the date range to only display files modified today.
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Review the list of files which were modified today to determine if a keylogger log file exists. You may need to open any unusual findings in Notepad to determine if it is a keylogger log file.
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Launch your anti-virus program.
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Perform anti-virus updates to ensure that your virus definitions are the latest.
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Scan your entire computer system. Most anti-virus programs should locate and remove keylogger programs.
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Tips & Warnings
There are several programs designed specifically to detect keyloggers. One of the most popular is Spybot Search & Destroy. Consider employing this program if your search yields no results but you still suspect that there is a keylogger present.
If you suspect your computer is infected with a keylogger, consider using a virtual keyboard for all sensitive inputs like passwords, credit card numbers and other personal information. You can launch the virtual keyboard by selecting "Start," "Programs," "Accessories," "Accessibility" and "On-screen keyboard."
References
- Photo Credit keyboard image by Fyerne from Fotolia.com
