Keylogging….Somebody could be watching you

At Systemagic we’re all about making technology work for our clients rather than adopting the latest gadget just for the sake of it. However, when we see something we think has the potential to help our clients we like to be hot off the press. Especially if it could have a positive impact on your businesses.  When we saw the latest keyboard from Microsoft using latest Advanced Encryption Standards (AES) in action we had to tell you about it. Have you ever heard of keylogging?

Unlike your standard keyboard Advanced Encryption Standards can effectively help protect both your work and personal information by encrypting as you type.  Now, you may be thinking, why on earth would I need encryption on my keyboard? The answer to that is simple!

What’s keylogging?

A keylogger is a type of surveillance software that essentially records every action or stroke you make on your keyboard.  A keylogger recorder has the ability to record e-mails, instant messages and literally any information you type. A number of keylogging programs can even store e-mail addresses you’ve used. Not to mention websites you’ve visited!

What’s keylogging used for?

A keylogger can be used for a number of different purposes legitimate and otherwise. Employers may use them to monitor employee activity.  Some keyloggers are able to capture your screen at random intervals (known as screen recorders.) Keyloggers can also be embedded in spyware. We’ve seen a rise in use of keylogging by hackers to gain access to private information. This as a result of increasingly effective antivirus software and online security.  As you have probably worked out, hackers that are aware of everything you or your team type could be highly damaging to both your business and personal affairs.

How can I avoid keylogging?

There are a variety of ways to detect a keylogger. If you want to make sure you’re protecting yourself from keylogging, we firstly recommend a couple of simple methods:

• Keep your software updated. Being proactive about your computer’s security is always a good idea. The most important part of a proactive defense is keeping software updated.
• Change your passwords frequently. Changing your passwords frequently will help minimize the potential damage of a keylogging attack. Your password may be stolen, but it would be uncommon for it to be stolen and used immediately

Wireless Desktop 2000 – The Wireless Desktop 2000 features Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which can help protect your personal and business information by encrypting what you type.

Of course the above techniques are great ways to protect yourself against keylogging but they only decrease a keyloggers opportunity to infect your PC. Microsoft’s latest keyboard can help protect your personal and business information by encrypting what you type at all times. We’re really excited by this product and have begun installing it for a number of our clients, especially for those with multiple sites or with users that work in remote locations where physical security is a potential issue.  Our clients have found that this low cost and easy to install solution (just plug it in and you’re ready to go) is great value for money and offers real protection from a growing threat.

Would you like more information regarding keylogging or other potential IT related security issues? Please get in touch.

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