Keylogging Uncovered.
Keylogging. Is it a new concept or just an updated version of Espionage?
Information and specifically confidential data have always had a price, and someone has always wanted to get a hold of it. Documented spies date back in history from the 1st century. Espionage continues to evolve, and we as users of technology must stay on top of how our data is being hacked. Keylogging is one of today’s modern cyber-crimes but has the same basis as ancient spies.
A Keylogger is a type of software or device that acts as surveillance tracking mechanisms. Think back to the KGB or catch up on the hit Fox show, The Americans, to get an idea of how tracking mechanisms used to work! Back in the eighties and nineties (and possibly even today), the Russian KGB spies were attempting to track and record all intelligence, technology, and conversations involving United States citizens, especially individuals associated with the Government. In today’s world, espionage is just as active, and the Average Joe is now a target more than ever.
Ethical keylogging happens all over the place, especially in businesses and schools. Many companies require employees to sign a contract at the start of employment stating that the technology used by said employee belongs to the company and can be monitored at any time. This tracking is a type of “ethical keylogging” where the employer can track websites that are visited, emails being sent, or even instant messages sent during business hours. There is also parental control software that allows a parent to log in to the computer and read accessed file data for that specific device. Some keylogging software components can even send this data via a Bluetooth connection to the parent’s device.
On the “darker” side of the web, there is unethical keylogging. Many times, ethical software or devices are used in unethical ways. Many keyloggers rely on the uninformed user to click on an attachment in an email. Embedded in this attachment can be a “keylogger” which will automatically install on the computer and track all key strokes. Which means the keylogger is past your firewall and can record any user-names, passwords, websites and email addresses typed on that device. This is how cybercriminals steal banking information, credit card numbers and gaming information.
Now, how do you stay safe from these malicious keyloggers? To keep a keylogger from entering your network and capturing your precious data from your computer, you need a Firewall. These firewalls act as a “bouncer” for your technology devices and can help protect against keyloggers. They send alerts notifying you that there has been an attempt to either get inside the network or if any information is attempting to exit your device and our incredible business technology associates at Pendello Solutions monitor said notifications 24/7.
Secondly, keeping all software up to date is a must. Even the best software out there can have vulnerable holes which can be exploited by malicious malware and potentially be imbedding keylogging software within your computer. These holes are routinely patched by the software engineers and if not updated, can leave your network and computer open to all sorts of attacks. Although keeping up with software updates can be costly and time-consuming, it is a critical proactive step to keep your data safe.
We at Pendello Solutions know that security is not always convenient. That is why we proactively make an attempt to ensure that these security implementations are as easy as possible for our clients. So, make sure and give our team a call today and let us take the hassle of securing your network and office to the fullest extent.
At Pendello Solutions, we turn technology hurdles into powerful assets. Our technology solutions fuel growth, productivity, and efficiency, through continuous innovation and strategic solutions, empowering your business beyond the imaginable. Contact us today to discover the Pendello Method.