Technology

Why Are Keyloggers So Dangerous?

Why Are Keyloggers So Dangerous?

With a remote keylogger for android, you can be able to track every keystroke one is making on their mobile devices. This simply means that you are able to monitor and record information like chats, logins, and anything a user types on the keyboard without physically accessing the device. Hackers can be able to mine these examples of data using keyloggers:

  • Browsing history
  • Credit card details
  • Full names
  • Addresses
  • Passwords
  • Email addresses
  • Bank account details

What is a keylogger and why is it dangerous?

Keylogger is a term used to refer to a device or a software program set to secretly monitor and record all the keystrokes. They could be legal or illegal depending on what the information will be used for and who gets access to the information recorded. If these keystrokes land in bad hands, they could be extremely dangerous. 

Keylogger software can be easily spread by cybercriminals since they are spread through fake programs that pretend to be legit. You usually come across this type of spyware through:

  • Fake websites
  • Downloaded games and programs
  • Emails
  • Music files

A thief can obtain credit card details and spend any funds the issuing bank allows the user. This has been common today because we give out information without knowing.

Passwords are also part of information targeted by unauthorized persons, if they get access, they can use them to authorize some dangerous activities. 

How to Protect Yourself from Hidden Keyloggers?

Anjelica Rivera, a cybersecurity expert, advises you to always think as if your keystrokes are being monitored. You never know when you could fall victim to these types of exploits, so taking preventative measures will ensure that your privacy remains intact.

These precautionary measures will prevent your data from being stolen.

Use Antivirus Tools

Most antivirus tools are able to detect hidden keyloggers and some software also offers protections to stop malicious websites from extracting your personal information. 

However, some of the keyloggers can’t be detected by antivirus programs. If you are not satisfied with the antivirus tools to offer you protection then, how do you tell if there is a keylogger on your pc?

One of the easiest ways is to use the progress bar. The task manager keeps a log of all activities going on on your pc. To open the task manager, press Ctrl + Alt + Del then open the process tab and check through the list and find any suspicious activities.

Use Anti-Spyware Software

This is software almost similar to anti-virus tools. The only difference is that anti-spyware is set specifically to detect a specific set of malicious applications known as spyware. Their tools are frequently updated in order to detect even the stealthiest threats.

Use a Firewall

A firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls the incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. For a keylogger to finish its complete cycle, it must get back to the attacker and this means your computer should send the data through the internet. The firewall on the other side will be able to capture the malicious activity on your internet and alert you.

Conclusion 

You should always ensure that every information you enter onto your device is only known to you and people you trust. This can be ensured by taking the required measures explained above.

About the author

Steven Ly

Steven Ly is the Startup Program and Events Manager at TheNextHint Inc. She recruits rockstar startups for all TC events including Disrupt, meetups, Sessions, and more both domestically and internationally. Previously, she helped produce Dreamforce with Salesforce and Next '17 with Google. Prior to that, she was on the advertising teams at both Facebook and AdRoll, helping support advertisers in North America and helped grow those brands globally. Outside of work, Priya enjoys Flywheel, tacos, the 49ers, and adventuring around the globe.

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