How to Detect and Remove Keylogging Malware
Keylogger malware is one of the most dangerous threats to a PC user's privacy. This type of malware installs itself as a result of clicking while browsing the Internet or downloading software. Keyloggers keep track of all of your keystrokes when you are using your PC and then transfers the information to a remote server. It is capable of recording all of your online conversations, emails, and password logins, as well as creating screenshots of all of your PC activity.
Keyloggers are not always in the form of malware or software; it can also be installed on your computer in the form of hardware through being placed between the plug on your keyboard and the entry port. Some keyloggers are legitimate applications such as those that record an employee's PC activity during work hours. Other keyloggers are in the form of malicious software that is designed to perform criminal activity.
How to Detect a Keylogger
You can detect a keylogger through unexplained or abnormal behaviors in your PC's performance.
- Sluggish Performance: Although keyloggers are difficult to detect due to the fact that they run in the background of your operating system without your knowledge, you can detect their presence if your Internet connection is slow, your PC takes an excessive amount of time during the booting process, or your operating systems appears to be running slower than normal.
- Change in Settings: You may notice that the homepage of your browser has changed for no reason and that it directs you to an unfamiliar website. You may also notice that there are additional shortcuts that have been added to your PC's desktop.
- Excessive Pop-Up Activity: Excessive pop-up activity can be a sign that a keylogger has entered your PC. The keylogger may even prevent you from accessing websites and track your personal information and online logins.
How to Get Rid of a Keylogger
- Install Anti-Virus/Anti-Spyware: Install a reputable anti-virus program that also protects your PC against malware such as spyware and keyloggers. Make sure the anti-virus software performs regular updates, performs malware removal, and scans your computer on a regular basis.
- Activate Your Firewall: Make sure your firewall is enabled to help prevent access to your PC from the Internet. Although hackers can always find ways to get around a firewall, having it enabled may prevent your information from being sent to the remote server by the keylogger.
- Use Voice Recognition Software: Keyloggers are only capable of recording your keystrokes from the keyboard. They cannot detect your computer activity if you use voice recognition software.
- Use a Different Keyboard: Get a keyboard that contains a different layout that the conventional keyboards. If you use a different layout, the keylogger cannot make sense out of your keystrokes.
If your anti-virus program does not get rid of the keylogger consider using alternative software such as PC Wash for malware removal.
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