HOW HACKERS MONITOR KEYSTROKES ON COMPUTER?
Keystroke monitoring is becoming one of the primary vehicles to steal sensitive information from consumers and companies. By knowing how to monitor keystrokes on computer, hackers can get ahold of usernames, passwords, and confidential data, then use them to their advantage.
Monitor Keystrokes On Computer: WHAT IS A KEYLOGGER?
Monitor Keystrokes On Computer (short for keystroke logger) is an application that can intercept keystrokes on the computer. By monitoring the paths of the operating system that the keys travel through, a keylogger can record keystrokes.
Keystrokes go through a path to reach their destination. Keylogger software positions itself on this path so it can monitor keystrokes on computer and save them on its internal memory. Via a remote server, hackers can retrieve the data.
Keyloggers being able to monitor keystrokes on computer often results in data breaches, identity theft, and unauthorized transactions. Because a keylogger is stealthy, it can be difficult to detect. Users whose devices are infected with a keylogger may have no knowledge of the infection.
A keystroke logger is also able to perform other functions, such as capturing screenshots and turning on the mic. In an instance that the keystrokes are not enough to gather data, a keylogger can be programmed to capture screenshots.
Hackers can easily infect any computer with a keylogger and then monitor keystrokes on computer. One of the primary methods is spear phishing or spam emails. Other methods are fake software, malvertising, phishing URLs, malicious pop-ups, and exploit kits.
These hacking techniques are designed to trick users into downloading malware, such as a keylogger. Many users have already downloaded and installed malware on their computer without knowing it.
Therefore, it is essential to take caution and tighten your computer security to prevent keyloggers to monitor keystrokes on computer and steal personal information.
METHODS TO PREVENT A KEYLOGGER TO MONITOR KEYSTROKES ON COMPUTER
Method #1: Scan URLs
A phishing URL, also known as clickbait, is one of the primary ways to install a keylogger. By pretending to be a legitimate link, it can conceal a keylogger. The phishing URL loads unwanted websites that install malware in the background.
One way to detect a phishing URL is by scanning it first. With anti malware software, it can be easily detected. However, if you don’t have anti malware software, you can use a third-party web link scanner to verify the reputation of the website.
Method #2: Use key encryption software
Key encryption software encrypts the keys with random characters. It protects the keys from getting stolen, even if keyloggers monitor keystrokes on computer.
Key encryption software is designed to conceal the keys as they travel through the path of the operating system, preventing keyloggers from intercepting the exact keys.
Method #3: Use a password manager
A password manager safely stores your passwords in one place. By automatically filling out the username and password fields on a website, it prevents a keylogger from stealing your personal information.
Without typing the information on the keyboard, a keylogger won’t be able to monitor keystrokes on computer. Through a password manager, you can keep your password from getting hacked.
Method #4: Install anti-malware software
Anti malware software is an excellent tool for preventing data breaches and identity theft. Consisting of advanced security features, it can detect a keylogger in no time.
Anti malware software can also detect the source of malware, preventing it from reaching the computer. Equipped with phishing detection, anti malware software can identify spear phishing, drive-by-downloads, and phishing URLs.
Through the preventive measures mentioned above, you can avoid falling victim to keylogger attacks.
Monitor Keystrokes On Computer: HOW TO PREVENT KEYLOGGERS ON ENDPOINT DEVICES
For business networks with endpoint devices, installing anti malware software with endpoint protection is essential. It protects the entire network and endpoint devices from getting hacked. Using advanced security features, endpoint security software patches unknown system vulnerabilities and prevents the entry of malware.
Xcitium Advanced Endpoint Protection is one of the most trusted endpoint security software today. Through advanced technologies, it recognizes and destroys malware in no time.
One of the security layers of Xcitium Advanced Endpoint Protection that protects against keyloggers is the Host Intrusion Prevention System. It constantly monitors the critical parts of the computer, such as the memory, registry, hard drive, and keyboard, thus preventing malicious modifications and unauthorized access.
The Host Intrusion Prevention System easily recognizes even advanced keyloggers because it is designed to detect malware that can bypass the firewall and antivirus.
Monitor Keystrokes On Computer Conclusion
A keylogger makes possible for hackers to monitor keystrokes on computer. Without multi-layered protection, you may fall victim to a keylogger. Applying preventive measures and installing anti malware software are important.
Download Xcitium Advanced Endpoint Protection today. Or contact us to get a live demo and see how it works.
Related Sources:
Endpoint Detection
Endpoint Detection and Response