Keyloggers Explained — How They Capture Every Keystroke

Keyloggers — Silent Password Thieves

A keylogger records every single keystroke you type — passwords, messages, credit card numbers. Everything.

Types of Keyloggers

Software Keyloggers

• API-based: Hooks keyboard events at OS level
• Form Grabbers: Captures data submitted in web forms
• Memory-Injection: Injects into browser process
• Kernel-based: Operates at driver level (hardest to detect)

Hardware Keyloggers

• USB Keylogger: ₹500-2000, sits between keyboard and computer
• WiFi Keylogger: Sends captured data wirelessly
• Acoustic: Records keyboard sounds and decodes keystrokes

How Keyloggers Reach You

• Email attachments
• Drive-by downloads
• Bundled with pirated software
• Physical installation (hardware)
• Infected USB drives

Python Keylogger Example

from pynput import keyboard
log = ""
def on_press(key):
    global log
    log += str(key)
    if len(log) > 100:
        # Send to attacker (this is the dangerous part)
        log = ""

with keyboard.Listener(on_press=on_press) as listener:
    listener.join()

Detection & Removal

• 🔍 Check Task Manager for unknown processes
• 🔍 Inspect startup programs
• 🔍 Use anti-keylogger software (Zemana, SpyShelter)
• 🔍 Check USB ports for physical devices
• 🔍 Use on-screen keyboard for sensitive input

🔥 Learn malware analysis at Code Hacker →