Keylogger Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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keylogger

[ˈkiːˌlɔːɡər ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

computer security

A keylogger is a type of surveillance software that records every keystroke made by a user, typically without their knowledge. This can include sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal messages.

Synonyms

key recorder, keyboard capturer, keystroke logger.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
keylogger	Same as the first entry for 'keylogger'. The company installed anti-virus software to protect against keyloggers. He was arrested for installing a keylogger on his colleague's computer.
keystroke logger	Commonly used in legal, academic, and professional settings to describe software that records keystrokes. It has a more technical feel and can have both negative and positive connotations based on use. For the security audit, they employed a keystroke logger to monitor system interactions. The malicious hacker used a keystroke logger to steal financial information.
key recorder	Typically used in technical or forensic contexts to document or study keystrokes. It can have both positive and negative connotations depending on the intent. The technician used a key recorder to troubleshoot the keyboard issue. During the investigation, they discovered a key recorder was being used to capture sensitive information.
keyboard capturer	Less commonly used term, can be used in a specific context where the software captures keyboard inputs, often with a neutral or negative connotation. The cybersecurity expert discussed how a keyboard capturer could be used to intercept passwords. After reviewing the system logs, they found evidence of a keyboard capturer.

Examples of usage

Keyloggers are often used by hackers to steal confidential information.
Employers may use keyloggers to monitor employees' computer activity.
Installing a keylogger on someone's device without their consent is illegal.
Keyloggers can be difficult to detect, making them a serious threat to cybersecurity.
Protecting your computer from keyloggers is essential for maintaining your privacy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cybersecurity

Keyloggers can be used for legitimate purposes, such as monitoring employee activity to ensure productivity.
They are often employed maliciously to steal passwords and personal information without the user's knowledge.

Pop Culture

Films often portray hackers using keyloggers to break into secure systems, fueling public curiosity and fear about cybercrime.
Keyloggers are frequently referenced in tech thrillers and crime shows to depict the dangers of modern technology.

Technology

There are hardware and software keyloggers; hardware ones capture keystrokes directly from the keyboard, while software run on the operating system.
Some keyloggers can be so discreet that users may not be aware they are installed on their devices.

Legislation

The use of keyloggers raises significant ethical and legal issues, particularly concerning user privacy rights.
Various countries have laws regulating the use of keyloggers, especially regarding consent and notification to users.

Origin of 'keylogger'

Main points about word origin

The word combines 'key' which refers to keyboard keys, and 'logger' meaning someone or something that records information.
The term started gaining popularity in the early 1990s with the rise of personal computers and digital security.

The term 'keylogger' is a combination of 'key' and 'logger,' where 'key' refers to the keystrokes being recorded and 'logger' indicates the act of logging or recording. Keyloggers have been around since the early days of computing, initially used for debugging and monitoring purposes. However, they have since been exploited by malicious actors for unauthorized surveillance and data theft.

See also: hotkeys, key, keyboard, keyhole, keying, keynote, keypad, keys, keystone, keyway, keyword.